HARDIN COUNTY, Texas — A grandmother in Hardin County wants justice for her 6-year-old grandson who ended up in the hospital after he was reportedly attacked by their neighbors three pit bulls on Cooks Lake Road.
"They just ran up on me and jumped on me," said 6-year-old Elijah Johnson.
A normal summer day for Johnson turned into a terrifying encounter Tuesday evening.
He's still recovering from several bites that relatives say came from the neighbor's three large pit bulls.
"He was bitten on his arm, his hand I think the dog bit through his hand, his leg, and his behind," said grandmother Tracy Bratford.
Elijah said his uncles bravery stopped the attack from getting even worse.
"My uncle 'Pookie' saved me. he chased them with a gray bucket," said Johnson.
Elijah was later rushed to Baptist Hospital and is expected to make a full recovery, but he now has to endure weeks of tetanus and rabies shots.
His Grandmother says that the dog owners must hold themselves accountable.
"I think the owners should take the responsibility to pay his hospital bills," said Bratford.
Hardin County Sheriff Mark Davis also commented on the attack.
"The owners of the dogs have been located and are cooperating with the investigation. Two dogs were killed by the owner. Two dogs have been isolated for observation," said Davis.
Sheriff Davis says that the county does not have an ordinance involving dogs and the investigation regarding any charges is ongoing.
Neighbors tell 12News that the property is home to five adult pit bulls and about 15 puppies.
The family hopes the neighbors will take measures to contain their animals before someone else gets hurt.
"I also think the owners need to provide the right fencing to keep this situation from happening again. I'm not angry about it with anybody I just want something done," said Elijah's mother.