The community in Volusia County wants justice following a deadly dog attack.

DELAND, Fla. – A Volusia County family and the surrounding community are seeking justice and answers following a dog attack that killed a child earlier this week.

Eight-year-old Michael Millett was attacked and killed by two dogs Monday night near his home in DeLand, the sheriff’s office says.

Deputies reported that the dogs escaped from their owner’s property and went into Millett’s neighborhood. Investigators are now working to have the dogs euthanized, which the family is also advocating for.

Community members have expressed concerns about the accountability of the owner.

“Obviously, these dogs pose a very serious danger, but they’re also considered evidence,” said Angela Miedema, Director of Volusia’s Animal Services.

Deputies said the attack occurred while Millett was riding his bike with a friend. Initially, the interaction with the dogs seemed friendly, but it quickly turned tragic.

Miedema explained, “It’s also a state statute that they’re not to be euthanized for a 10-day period without the owner’s relinquishment, without their permission.”

The sheriff’s office said the owner has not been cooperating with investigators, despite having the option to appeal the euthanasia decision.

“If she never does and she never contacts us at the end of 10 days, they will still be euthanized,” Miedema said.

To ensure the dogs were responsible for the attack, a specialist is conducting DNA tests on the dogs’ teeth. The hard evidence is crucial for building a stronger case against the owner.

Although residents reported that the dogs notoriously got out and ran around the neighborhood, no official complaints were made to animal services.

“We wish we had had that information prior because that would have helped us in pursuing a dangerous dog investigation and deeming them dangerous, which would have absolutely expedited that euthanasia,” Miedema noted.

News 6 has chosen not to name the owner as she has not yet been charged. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into her actions.

“To build a case, we need to say what the history is. If you’ve provided the history or have shown that there is a repetitive pet responsibility factor for this owner, then we could have possibly taken action faster,” said Miedema.

The sheriff’s office is urging anyone who had previous encounters with the dogs to contact them to assist with the case.

They also remind pet owners of the legal requirement to keep dogs contained to their property or on a leash and to report any loose dogs to local animal services.

A GoFundMe has been set up for the Millett family. To donate, click here.