Deputies with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office were called to a home in the 5700 block of Pinehurst just west of Conroe Saturday evening after getting a call that Christian Gormanous had been bitten by a pit bull.
Investigators with the Major Crimes Unit learned it happened after the boy climbed a chain link fence into a neighbor's yard. The dog was chained, but investigators said Christian got close enough to be attacked by the dog.
The victim's 9-year-old sister pulled the boy to safety and called for help, officials said.
Christian later died at the hospital.
Neighbors said they've complained about the dog running lose before.
"We called and called the Humane Society, and they don't ever do anything about it," said Michel McDanel, who lives nearby.
Animal Control officers took custody of the dog. Authorities have not yet indicated whether the owner will face charges.
Christian's family was too heartbroken to speak, but released the following statement:
"The family has experienced a tragic loss. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and we ask that we be given time to grieve."
(click2houston - Jan. 20, 2013)
