Valdosta, Georgia — Toddler Killed by Dogs at Unlicensed Daycare, Owner Arrested on Murder Charges
Valdosta, Georgia — Toddler Killed by Dogs at Unlicensed Daycare, Owner Arrested on Murder Charges
Valdosta, Georgia — A 2-year-old boy was killed after being mauled by two large dogs at an unlicensed daycare, authorities confirmed, in what officials are calling a “horrific and entirely preventable tragedy.” Police say the child was left unattended for more than two hours while the daycare operator claimed she was napping.
According to the Valdosta Police Department, officers were dispatched to a home on Friday at approximately 3:45 p.m. following reports of a child attacked by dogs. When first responders arrived at the residence, they discovered the toddler had suffered fatal injuries. Despite attempts to provide medical aid, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators said the incident occurred at a private home operating as an unlicensed daycare. Earlier that morning, the child’s mother had dropped him off with the caregiver, unaware of the potential dangers within the property. The daycare owner later told authorities she had fallen asleep and believed the boy was also napping.
While unsupervised, police believe the toddler managed to exit the house and enter the backyard, where two large Rottweilers were kept inside a kennel. According to the official police report, the child appears to have opened the kennel door, releasing the dogs. Moments later, the animals attacked, inflicting severe injuries that proved fatal.
Authorities identified the daycare operator as a 48-year-old woman who was taken into custody shortly after the attack. She has been charged with second-degree murder and second-degree cruelty to children, both felony offenses. Investigators confirmed she was running the daycare without a license or state oversight.
Police said that although the woman typically cared for about ten children, the victim was the only child at the home during the time of the incident. Officials are now reviewing whether other families who previously used the daycare had reported safety concerns or irregular practices.
The suspect was booked into the Lowndes County Jail on Saturday and remains in custody as of this week. Jail records indicate that she has not yet obtained legal representation. Investigators have removed the dogs from the property, pending evaluation and further legal proceedings.
In an emotional statement, Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan condemned the caregiver’s negligence, calling the incident one of the most devastating cases her department has encountered. “This is a horrible and tragic event that should have never occurred,” she said. “Because of negligence on this offender’s behalf, a mother has lost her child in the most unimaginable way.”
Authorities have not released the victim’s name or the identity of the family, citing privacy concerns. Police say the investigation remains active as detectives continue to gather evidence and determine whether additional charges will be filed. The state’s Department of Early Care and Learning has also been notified and is assisting with the inquiry.
As the community of Valdosta mourns, neighbors have begun placing flowers and stuffed animals near the home where the tragedy occurred. Residents say they are heartbroken over the loss of such a young life and are urging local parents to verify that all childcare providers are properly licensed and regulated. The investigation continues as officials vow to ensure justice for the toddler whose life was cut tragically short.
