Full Notification

DATE/ TIME OF INCIDENT: Monday, February 10, 2020 / 2:57p.m.

INCIDENT: FATAL DOG ATTACK

LOCATION: 15100 block of Portland Street, Oro Grande

VICTIM: Sterling Vermeer, 5-years-old, resident of Oro Grande

UPDATE:
The victim of the fatal dog attack was identified as five-year-old Sterling Vermeer.
Updates will be issued as new information becomes available for release.
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SUMMARY:
On Monday, February 10, 2020, at 2:57p.m., deputies from the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station responded to a 9-1-1 call on the 15100 block of Portland Street, Oro Grande. According to the caller, the family dog was attacking a 5-year-old family member and would not let go. When deputies arrived at the residence, they located the 5-year-old boy at the residence with traumatic injuries. The child succumbed to his injuries before law enforcement and fire officials arrived.

Through the investigation, deputies learned the child was being supervised by an adult relative at the residence. The adult stepped out of the room, leaving the child alone with the Pitbull. When he returned, the dog was attacking the child and would not release him. There were no other children present during the attack. Detectives are still conducting the investigation at the time of this release. The owner signed over custody of the dog to the San Bernardino County Animal Control.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Detective J. Collins at Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station, (760) 552-6800. Persons wishing to remain anonymous can report information to WeTip by calling 1-800-78-CRIME, or by accessing the website at www.wetip.com.

Refer: Staci Parks

Station: Victor Valley Sheriff's Station

Report # 072000435

Phone No: 760-552-6845

JOHN MCMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department