A family in Southern California is grieving the loss of a 12-year-old boy who tragically drowned after jumping into a lake to escape three aggressive dogs.
On June 18, police received a report about a boy drowning. The victim, 12-year-old Fernando Torres Moreno, had jumped into Central Park Lake in Kern County while fleeing from a vicious dog, according to law enforcement.
When authorities arrived, they found Fernando in the water. They also located a girl who had suffered a “non-life-threatening” dog bite.
Fernando was rushed to a hospital where lifesaving efforts commenced, but sadly, the girl was treated and later released.
Witness accounts led the police to 68-year-old Kenneth Dobbins, who claimed to be at the park with his three dogs, stating they had been with him the whole time. He was not taken into custody.
Unfortunately, Fernando passed away in the hospital on June 19.
While investigating, police confirmed the dog involved in the attack was owned by Dobbins. However, when they attempted to serve a search warrant related to the drowning, both Dobbins and his dog were reported missing.
One of the dogs has since been seized in Los Angeles County, and law enforcement is now seeking the public’s assistance in locating Dobbins and the other two dogs.
Authorities have described Dobbins as a “transient resident and convicted felon with loose ties to California City and Palmdale.” He is approximately 6 feet 6 inches tall, weighs around 250 pounds, and has gray hair and brown eyes.
A GoFundMe has been established to support the family with funeral expenses as they navigate this sudden and heartbreaking loss.
The fundraiser reflects on Fernando as a “bright and loving boy who brought joy to those around him.” It notes how much he loved being outdoors, playing with his siblings, and making new friends.
“His laughter and kindness touched the lives of many, and his absence has left a huge hole in the hearts of his family and community.”
