Dog that mauled Hazel Park 4-year-old was taken in to help a friend, family says

The family of the 4-year-old boy mauled to death by a dog Tuesday night in Hazel Park says they had taken the dog into their home to help a friend in need and that the dog had never shown aggressive behavior.

The family has identified the young child as Benjamin Cobb in a statement provided to FOX 2 Detroit. The family called it their worst nightmare and that it has "taken an unimaginable toll" on the family, friends, and all who knew Benjamin.

Neighbors stunned by mauling death of 4-year-old Hazel park boy

Neighbors who live near the home where a Hazel Park boy was mauled to death by a dog say they're heartbroken about what happened on their street.

FOX 2 is respecting the family's privacy and wishes.

A GoFundMe has been set up for the family of Benjamin Cobb.

Benjamin Cobb, 4, was identified by the family as the boy mauled to death by a dog Tuesday night. (Photo: Family handout)

Police said that the child was mauled by a pit bull at a house on Woodruff in the area of John R and Nine Mile Road.

Officers responded to a 911 call to find the 60-pound pit bull attacking the boy inside the home, shortly before 7 p.m. Police used Tasers on the dog to free the boy who suffered serious wounds to his body and neck. The tasers were still in the yard Wednesday morning.

Benjamin was rushed to the hospital where he died.

Benjamin Cobb, 4, was identified by the family as the boy mauled to death by a dog Tuesday night. (Photo: Family handout)

His mother tried to stop the dog and even stabbed it with a knife in hopes that it would let go. She also suffered bites but we're told her injuries are not serious.

FOX 2 learned that the boy had bite marks to his neck and boy and, despite doctors efforts, he was unable to be saved.

The dog, which was being fostered by the family, was taken to a veterinarian where it was euthanized.