A family is grappling with an unimaginable tragedy after their five-month-old baby boy was fatally attacked by a dog in South Carolina. Dean Everett Gross, described as a 'bright spirit,' was mauled by a dog on Thursday and spent 24 hours in intensive care before succumbing to his injuries.
Family Remembers Dean as a 'Treasure'
Dean's parents, Thomas and Natalie Gross, referred to him as the 'treasure of their lives' in a GoFundMe campaign. The page stated: 'Dearly loved, wonderful in so many ways, [Dean] brought endless joy to everyone who knew him. Dean's bright spirit and sweet presence touched the hearts of his family and friends every single day.'
Details of the Incident
The Anderson County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a dog attack around 1 p.m. on May 14. Dean and another adult were injured before the dog fled the home. The breed of the dog and its owner remain unknown. According to Fox Carolina, the dog was later found near Cater's Lake and handed over to Anderson County PAWS.
Officials confirmed that Dean sustained critical, life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Greenville, where he died on Friday. The Anderson County Coroner's Office ruled his death an accident due to multiple traumatic injuries. The injured adult was treated and released, though their identity has not been disclosed.
Outpouring of Support
A fundraiser launched for the family has raised over $44,800 as of Monday afternoon. The page added: 'None of us are doing well, but we are together as a family in tears and love.' Thomas Gross's brother, Miller Gross, wrote on Facebook: 'My sweet little brother and sister-in-law lost a true little angel to a terrible, unthinkable tragedy. Dean was such a sweet and happy little guy. I feel so grateful to have gotten to be his uncle for five months.'
Just a week before the incident, Natalie, a Spanish teacher, celebrated her first Mother's Day with Dean. Her husband Thomas posted on Instagram: 'Happy Mother's Day to the love of my life. I am so grateful I get to have another reason to celebrate such a special and beautiful person. You are truly the most intuitive and loving mother of all time! I love you so much!'
Investigation Ongoing
Officials confirmed that the incident remains under investigation. The Daily Mail has reached out to the Anderson County Sheriff's Office and attempted to contact the Gross family for comment.
