DATE/TIME: Friday, February 27, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m.
INCIDENT: Death Investigation
LOCATION: 6700 Block of Wingfoot Court, Big River, CA
VICTIM(S): Emily Panuco, 26-years-old, Female Resident of Parker, AZ
SUMMARY: On Friday, February 27, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., deputies from the Colorado River Station/Needles Police Department responded to a reported dog attack at a residence located in the 6700 block of Wingfoot Court in Big River, CA.
Preliminary investigation revealed that a 5-year-old male juvenile and his mother, identified as Emily Panuco, had arrived at the residence, which belongs to Panuco's mother, to see the several-week old puppies. The puppies, which belong to Panuco's mother, were located in a cardboard box near the front door of the residence. There were three additional adult dogs on the property as well, including the mother of the puppies.
According to statements obtained during the investigation, the juvenile approached the puppies to pet them when all three adult dogs attacked him. Panuco intervened in an effort to protect her son and was also attacked by the dogs.
Despite lifesaving efforts, Panuco sustained multiple bite wounds and was pronounced deceased as a result of her injuries. The juvenile sustained two severe dog bites and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment and later released.
The three adult dogs involved in the attack were euthanized by CRIT Animal Control.
The investigation is ongoing and has been assumed by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Coroner's Division.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Deputy R. Flores of the Colorado River Station / Needles Police Department at (760) 326-9200. Those wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or leave information online at www.wetip.com.
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Refer: Deputy R. Flores
Station: Colorado River Station / Needles Police Department
Phone No. (760) 326-9200
Case No. 102600061
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
