Investigators on Thursday announced the arrest of the suspected owner of more than 10 large-breed dogs that severely mauled a 17-year-old girl as she jogged through Newberry Springs last month.
Craig Arthur Simmons, 61, of Newberry Springs was taken into custody Wednesday morning as he rode a bicycle near his home, according to San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials and booking records.
He was booked on suspicion of being the owner of an animal causing serious injury or death. Bail was set at $30,000 pending an initial court appearance, which was scheduled for Friday.
The attack
The case stems from the severe mauling of a 17-year-old girl in the area of Newberry Road and Old National Trails Highway on July 17.
The victim, identified by family as Tracy Hurtado, “had been out jogging when she was attacked by 10 or more large breed dogs,” according to a sheriff’s department statement. “The dogs bit the victim several times on her legs and arms. The bites caused large lacerations, abrasions, and removed flesh.”
A good Samaritan intervened to stop the attack and prevent even further injury, officvials said.
The severely wounded girl was hospitalized at Loma Linda University Medical Center for treatment.
A total of 16 dogs believed to have been related to the incident were found in the area and seized by animal control officials.
Deputies determined the dogs belonged to a local resident and had not been fenced or leashed at the time of the mauling, sheriff’s officials said.
Community rallies behind young victim
An online fundraiser set up to help the victim’s family with mounting medical expenses had garnered more than $28,000 in donations as of Thursday.
Support Tracy’s Recovery Journey
The teen had been preparing to start her senior year of high school, but will now be focusing on recovering, loved ones said in a statement accompanying the fundraiser.
“Due to the trauma, she cannot sleep at night; she’s having nightmares,” the statement said.
Anyone with information was asked to contact the Barstow Sheriff’s Station at (760) 995-8788. Information may also be submitted anonymously to the We-Tip hotline at (800) 782-7463.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Owner of dogs that severely mauled teenage girl in Newberry Springs arrested
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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