Axson, GA — An 11-year-old boy was brutally mauled by three dogs Sunday afternoon after a four-wheeler he was riding with his best friend broke down, leaving the children scrambling for safety, according to authorities and the boy’s mother.
The attack happened near Wood Duck Road in Axson around 3:30 p.m. on September 13, according to the Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office. The victim was identified as Banner O’Berry, an Atco Middle School football player.
Banner and his best friend, Karson Clayton, were reportedly working on the four-wheeler when the dogs spotted them and ran toward the boys.
Realizing they were in danger, the children climbed onto the vehicle. But one of the dogs reportedly grabbed Banner by the ankle and pulled him off the four-wheeler, after which the other two dogs joined the attack.
His best friend fought to save him
As the dogs mauled Banner, his 11-year-old friend refused to run away and instead stayed beside him. According to Banner’s mother, Jessica O’Berry, the boys had very little with which to defend themselves. Banner had a pair of pliers, which he used while trying to fight off the animals.
Jessica said Banner managed to grab one of the dogs and hold it down while attempting to fend off the others.
Meanwhile, Karson began throwing objects at the dogs and screaming for help. He eventually managed to call for assistance, prompting his parents to rush to the scene.
The boys’ parents lived less than a mile away, according to Jessica’s account. Their quick response helped get Banner to medical care after the violent attack.
Banner suffered 17 open wounds
Banner was taken to Coffee Regional Medical Center, where he underwent several hours of surgery. His mother said doctors treated 17 open wounds on his legs following the mauling.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Banner was recovering after surgery.
Even while being transported for treatment, his mother said, the young football player was thinking about his team. Banner reportedly called his mother from the ambulance and asked her to tell his coach that he would not be able to finish the football season.
The incident has left his family deeply shaken, but Jessica also praised the courage shown by both boys during the attack. She described Karson’s actions as instrumental in helping her son survive the encounter.
One dog placed under 10-day hold
The Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office identified one of the three dogs as a pit bull, while the breeds of the other two animals have not been disclosed.
Authorities said one of the dogs involved has been taken into custody for a 10-day hold as the investigation continues. Officials are also taking steps to petition for the animal to be declared a dangerous dog, which could lead to additional safety measures.
Jessica also alleged that the dogs’ owner arrived at the scene but did not provide assistance to her injured son before taking the animals away.
That allegation has not resulted in charges at this time.
Investigation remains ongoing
The Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office said the case remains an active investigation, and no arrests or charges had been announced in connection with the attack at the time of the latest reporting.
For Banner’s family, however, the focus is now on his recovery and the remarkable actions of the friend who stayed with him during the attack.
Jessica said the two boys showed extraordinary courage when they were suddenly confronted by three aggressive dogs.
After surviving the attack and undergoing multiple surgeries, Banner now has a frightening experience behind him — and, according to his mother, a story of bravery that he will one day be able to tell himself.
What do you think about the courage shown by Banner and his best friend during this terrifying attack? Share your thoughts in the comments.
