Support pours in for Mena Creek parents after toddler killed by family dog

##MP##

Two-year-old Talan Peters is being described as a ‘sweet boy’ and a ‘little warrior’ by his family and community members rocked by his tragic death.

The toddler was attacked by the family dog on their Mena Creek property on Saturday, suffering severe damage to his skull.

Talan was rushed to Innisfail Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville.

His parents, Amber Stewart and James Peters, along with brothers Lucas, 5, and one-month-old Kaden said their last goodbyes on Monday night.

##BA##

A fundraiser set up by Ms Stewart’s cousin, Bex Newman, has received a flood of heartfelt tributes and more than $20,000 in donations to assist the family.

“Talan was rushed to Innisfail Hospital, but his breathing and heart stopped,” she said.

“There he was brought back to life and stabilised before being airlifted to Townsville Base Hospital where he underwent emergency brain surgery.

“They unfortunately couldn’t stop the bleeding and his organs started to struggle.

##PQ##

“As you could imagine this is a truly heartbreaking time for the family.

“Thank you to every single donor – your generosity is absolutely astounding and heart filling and is greatly appreciated by Talan’s family.”

Cassowary Coast Regional Council confirmed the dog has been put down.

“Council’s thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family at this time,” Cassowary Coast Regional Council CEO, Andrew Graffen, said.

“The incident on Saturday 29 January was responded to by the Queensland Police Service.

“Council were advised of the incident and understand that it has been referred to the Queensland Coroner.

“QPS has advised Council that the dog has been destroyed by the owner after the tragedy occurred.”

Dog attacks have been a growing concern among Far North Queenslanders.  

There were 684 dog attacks reported to Cairns Regional Council in the twelve months to July last year – up 35 per cent on the previous year.