Dog Attacks, Kills Toddler For Getting Too Close To Food Bowl

Funeral arrangements are set for a Springfield toddler who was killed by the family’s dog last week.

A’myrikal Hull just celebrated her first birthday on March 7.

On Thursday (March 18), she died of her injuries at HSHS St. John’s Hospital.

The family's dog bit her head, according to Springfield police. The dog apparently attacked because the girl got too close to its food bowl while it was eating, News Channel 20 reported.

"The dog [has] never snapped before," Cory Painter, one of A’myrikal’s family members, told the station. “…The fact that she didn't make it crushed my soul."

"A'myrikal was a very happy baby," Painter continued. "She just had these big beautiful eyes and a smile that would light up the room…The dog was like her best friend.”

Sangamon County Animal Control is holding the dog and officials are observing the dog for signs of rabies, according to News Channel 20.

The family set up a Go Fund Me campaign to raise money for A’myrikal’s funeral. As of Tuesday afternoon (March 23), donors surpassed the $5,000 goal and raised $7,000 for the family.

Here’s what the Go Fund Me page says:

“A’myrikal Jolynn Hull born 3/7/2020 sadly gained her wings on 3/18/2021 A’myrikal was a precious 1year old full of life and just celebrated her first birthday and was all smiles! Unfortunately tragedy hit tonight!And she was attacked by the family pet of 4 years! We are asking for help to plan her funeral and pay for her cremation and services! Plz share and pray for this family”

The family arranged the funeral for Wednesday, March 31, according to News Channel 20.

Photo: Getty Images