Animal bite incident under investigation

HOPE – On Saturday, September 27, 2025, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Hempstead County Deputy Jacob Wayne was provided a name and contact number in reference to an animal complaint in the Spring Hill community.

During the course of the investigation, Deputy Wayne made contact with personnel at Southwest Regional Medical Center in Hope, who advised that a juvenile male had arrived at the Emergency Room for treatment of injuries consistent with an animal bite. Medical staff further advised that, upon initial treatment, the juvenile would be transported to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock for further evaluation and care.

Deputy Evans responded to Southwest Regional Medical Center to speak with the victim’s family. The child’s mother stated that the incident occurred while attending a birthday party. She reported that she did not witness the incident firsthand, as she was inside the residence assisting another child at the time. According to information provided by other parents at the party, the juvenile had been attacked by a dog, prompting them to seek immediate medical attention.

The mother advised deputies that she intended to transport her child to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock to ensure he received the best available care for his injuries.

The Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine the ownership and vaccination status of the animal involved. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Sheriff James Singleton stated, “Our primary concern is for the safety and well-being of the child involved. We are working to determine the details of this incident and ensure all public health protocols are followed. We remind residents to keep their pets properly secured and vaccinated to help prevent incidents like this in the future.”