There isn’t much I wouldn’t do for my son. Once I had him, my entire world shifted. All my life I shied away from confrontation and always tried to be the most agreeable person in the room. But after he was born, I found it was easy to find my voice, especially when advocating for him. I’ve gone completely out of my comfort zone time and time again because I wholeheartedly believe his mere existence gives me more strength than I’ve ever had before.
I think that’s a common theme amongst moms. In fact, it’s fair to say most mothers would lay down their lives for their children. Although few, thankfully, ever have to, when a mom is faced with a choice and chooses her child over herself, she’s nothing short of a hero.
A 26-year-old mom tragically earned that title after she shielded her son from being attacked by three vicious dogs. People reported that on February 27, 2026, Emily Panuco and her 5-year-old son were visiting her mother in Big River, California, from Arizona. According to a news release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the mother and son were visiting to see a new litter of puppies in a cardboard box on the mother’s property.
Three large dogs also were present, including the mother of the puppies. When the little boy approached the box to pet them, all three dogs immediately attacked, per the news release. Panuco jumped in to protect her little boy, and the dogs proceeded to maul her.
Panuco was bitten multiple times. The release revealed that despite life-saving efforts, she died from her injuries. Sadly, the young boy was not unscathed either and reportedly had two bad bite wounds, which were treated at the hospital, according to the news release.
Luckily, the boy was released from the hospital, although the state of his condition is not currently known. The news release also noted that the dogs were euthanized by CRIT Animal Control. Police did not divulge the breed of the dogs, according to KTLA, and are still actively investigating the case to see if charges will be filed against anyone.
Meanwhile, Panuco’s husband, Richie Panuco, and their two children, the little boy, and a 7-month-old infant, are picking up the pieces of this horrific tragedy. A GoFundMe account was created to help support the young family and has raised well over the goal of $18,000, which will go toward funeral expenses, food, expenses for the children, and access to therapy.
“Emily was a devoted mother who worked at the CRITT library, where she touched the lives of many children and families,” the organizer of the fundraiser shared. “Her love for her own family was evident in everything she did, and her absence leaves a tremendous void. Please pray for Richie, his kids, and their entire family as they try to get through this heartbreaking time.”
With the investigation still open, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy R. Flores at the Colorado River Station is asking anyone with information to reach them at 760-326-9200. Those who want to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-78-CRIME or leave tips online at www.wetip.com.
