The two dogs responsible for an attack in Volusia County that claimed the life of an 8-year-old boy have been euthanized.
In a social media post, Volusia County Animal Services announced that the two dogs that fatally attacked Michael Millett on Monday, January 13, were euthanized in the morning hours on Thursday, January 30.
According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, a pair of dogs attacked Michael shortly before 5 p.m. on January 13. The attack occurred in a neighborhood located to the north of DeLand, near the intersection of Arabesque Drive and Airport Road.
Michael sadly succumbed to his injuries.
The deputies who responded to the area spotted the loose dogs down the road and chased after them. Animal Services officers also arrived on scene and captured both animals.
Animal Services stated that one of the dogs involved in the attack was a pit bull, and the other was a mixed breed.
“With no prior reports of incidents involving the dogs on record, state law required a mandatory 10-business day quarantine period before euthanasia could proceed without authorization from the owner,” said Animal Services on January 30. “During this time, the owner of the dogs had the opportunity to either relinquish ownership or file an appeal, but they did not.”
Both dogs remained in the custody of Animal Services until Thursday morning, when they were euthanized.
Animal Services said that Volusia County officials are speaking with experts from Harvard University to “further research canine hostility.” This collaboration involves sending forensic evidence to Harvard’s Canine Brain Research Group, with the goal of advancing the study of aggressive behaviors in canines to better protect the public.
“Protecting residents remains a top priority, and this incident reinforces the importance of reporting potential threats to the appropriate authorities,” stated Animal Services.
Residents should contact their municipality’s respective animal control division to report domestic animals behaving aggressively, along with other animal-related concerns. In the event of an emergency, or if someone is in danger from an animal, immediately call 911.
As Michael Millett’s family mourns his tragic loss, a GoFundMe account has been set up to assist his family with funeral expenses, medical costs, and additional expenses due to missed time off at work.
“On Monday, January 13, 2025, my niece Tiffani and her husband, Michael, lost their son, Michael in a tragic accident,” says Jackie Pasqualle Hart, the fundraiser’s organizer.
Hart described Michael as being an “incredibly smart” kid who was “funny, caring, loving, and so adventurous. Michael’s contagious laugh and light will be missed tremendously.”
As of 12 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, the GoFundMe campaign in support of Michael’s family has received over 1,500 donations, raising over $88,000.