by Tullahoma, TN — A heartbreaking tragedy struck the community of Tullahoma, Tennessee, after 50-year-old James Alexander Smith and his 3-month-old granddaughter were mauled to death by a group of pit bulls on Wednesday around 3 p.m., according to the Tullahoma Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities say officers arrived to a chaotic and horrifying scene, with the dogs “actively mauling” both victims. Despite immediate intervention, the attack had already turned fatal.
Dogs Euthanized at the Scene
In an official statement, the District Attorney’s Office confirmed that officers were forced to kill the dogs to stop the ongoing attack. By the time the animals were subdued, both Smith and the infant had already succumbed to their injuries.
The DA’s office described the incident as “an especially difficult and brutal scene,” asking the public to keep the grieving family and first responders in their prayers as they process the traumatic event.
Neighbor Describes Terrifying Moments Before Police Arrived
Brian Kirby, a nearby resident, told Fox 8 that he heard a woman screaming in the street moments before police arrived. When Kirby approached to help, the woman reportedly ran back inside the home in panic.
Police arrived seconds later and took down the aggressive dogs.
Kirby also stated the pit bulls had a violent history, claiming they had previously killed his pet cat, which he had owned for eight years.
“I don’t believe that they thought this would ever happen,” Kirby said. “People just need to keep animals on a leash better; that’s all.”
Despite the tragic outcome, Kirby expressed compassion for the dog owners, acknowledging their devastation:
“I’m not blaming them… it’s just hard to understand and wrap your head around it.”
Family Now Homeless, Grieving, and Struggling
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Ely Cournoyer launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Smith’s mother — known as “memaw” — who is now facing unimaginable hardship.
According to Cournoyer, the family “lost their home” just hours after losing both Smith and the baby. She wrote:
“They lost not only two precious lives, but also their home, their belongings, and their sense of security — all within hours.”
Smith’s mother is now caring for six remaining children, all of whom are without clothes, beds, or a place to stay.
Adding to their burden, Cournoyer noted that Smith did not have life insurance, leaving the family with the overwhelming cost of his funeral.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of death for both victims — specifically whether they died from injuries sustained in the attack or whether they may have been deceased prior to the mauling.
Investigators are also examining:
- The behavioral history of the dogs
- Any previous violent incidents involving the animals
- Potential past issues involving the children, including whether the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) had prior involvement
- Overall safety conditions inside the home
All remaining dogs at the residence have been placed under the custody of Tullahoma Animal Control, though officials have not yet decided their fate.
A Community Searching for Answers
The shocking incident has left neighbors, relatives, and first responders shaken. As the investigation proceeds, the Tullahoma community is rallying behind the surviving family members who are facing profound grief, financial strain, and homelessness.
What Are Your Thoughts?
How should communities address dangerous dog incidents, and what steps can help prevent tragedies like this?
Share your thoughts, prayers, and perspectives in the comments below.
