A 17-month-old toddler was found dead in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, following a suspected animal attack.
The incident occurred on Monday, September 18, when Da’Angelo Manning and another four-year-old child wandered away from their Winkler Road home near Haynesville, Louisiana.
The two children were reported missing around 10 am. Police arrived shortly after and located the four-year-old, who had minor scratches. The child was treated by Pafford Emergency Medical Services first responders and then released to a guardian.
Da’Angelo Manning’s body was discovered in a location north of Kendrick Springs Road where trees had recently been cut down.
According to reports, an initial statement from the police suggests that Manning’s death was due to an animal attack. However, the type of animal has not been identified, and the investigation is still underway. Local news sources confirm that the coroner has sent Manning’s body for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Claiborne Parish Sheriff Sam Dowies expressed the sheriff’s gratitude for the help provided by various organizations, including the Louisiana State Police, David Wade Correctional Center, Claiborne Parish volunteer firemen, and Pafford Ambulance Service.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Evelyn Ayala, a relative of the child, to assist with funeral expenses. The fundraising campaign has already gathered over $2,000 toward its $10,000 goal.
Angelica Márquez, the mother of Da’Angelo Manning, shared memories of her son on social media, recalling moments from his birth to the times they shared together. She emphasized her love for him and shared her challenges in coping with the situation.