In a tragic incident in Marion, Ohio, the parents of a six-month-old baby boy have been charged following the fatal attack by their family pit bull, Kilo. The heartbreaking event occurred on April 28, 2024, when baby Royal Bates was attacked after rolling off a couch while left in the care of an older sibling. The attack resulted in severe injuries, including a laceration to the skull, prompting a frantic 911 call from the child’s mother.
According to police reports, the mother, Alyssa Smith, called emergency services at 10:48 a.m., reporting that a dog had attacked her child. As first responders arrived, they found Royal breathing but turning blue, and they worked to provide CPR. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, the baby succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
In the wake of this tragedy, Royal’s parents, Blake Bates and Alyssa Smith, have been indicted on multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter and reckless homicide, as well as felony and misdemeanor counts of child endangerment. Prosecutors argue that the couple had prior knowledge of Kilo’s aggressive behavior and failed to take necessary precautions to protect their children. Evidence suggests that the family may have mistreated their dogs, which could have exacerbated Kilo’s violent tendencies.
The Marion County Prosecutor, Ray Grogan, emphasized the parents’ responsibility in safeguarding their children, stating, “Parents have a fundamental duty to ensure the safety of their children, and leaving a helpless baby in such a vulnerable situation is utterly inexcusable.” He stressed that the presence of a known dangerous dog in a household with small children demands vigilant oversight.
Witness testimonies indicate that there had been previous warnings regarding Kilo’s potential danger, with claims that neighbors had advised the parents to be cautious around the dog. Investigators are currently examining the dog’s history and the circumstances that led to the attack, including the conditions under which the animals were kept.
The couple appeared in court recently, where their bail was set at $150,000 for Bates and $50,000 for Smith. Both entered not guilty pleas. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case raises broader questions about responsible pet ownership and the safety of children in homes with potentially dangerous animals.
The community is left reeling from the loss of Royal Bates, whose brief life has become a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with parenting and pet ownership. The case continues to develop, and authorities are committed to ensuring accountability for this heartbreaking incident.