The Harford County Animal Control Unit is actively investigating the attack, which happened around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, near Mayfield Drive and Marcie Court in Bel Air, according to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the boy and his father were at the playground when, for reasons still unknown, a German Shepherd mix on a leash suddenly turned violent. The boy suffered serious injuries and was rushed to the hospital by Harford County EMS. He has since been released.
The dog and its owner—described only as a man believed to live in a nearby neighborhood—have not yet been found.
"Time is of the essence," officials said as they urged the public to come forward with any information or video footage that could help track down the dog and its owner.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505.
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