A devastating dog attack in Newberry Springs, California, has left a 17-year-old girl battling severe injuries and emotional trauma. On July 17, Tracy Azpeitia, a high school senior, was jogging near her home when she was viciously attacked by over 10 large-breed dogs. The tragedy unfolded just after 8 a.m. when Tracy was on her way to a local workout facility near the community center in a remote desert area.
Unimaginable Injuries
The attack caused extensive injuries, with Tracy suffering hundreds of bites over her body. Her stepfather, Carlos Ramirez, explained the harrowing extent of her wounds, which required more than 500 stitches. “It was not one or two dogs—it was a lot,” he said. “They bit every part of her body you could think of except for her ankles.” Tracy’s face and body were so severely affected that her mother, Maria Azpeitia, initially struggled to recognize her daughter amid the chaos.
“When I saw her, she was covered in dirt, and I couldn’t recognize her. I thought her arms were ripped off,” Maria tearfully shared. Despite the pain, Tracy managed to ask her mother, “Mom, am I still pretty?” Her mother responded with unwavering reassurance, “Yes, you’re beautiful.”
Good Samaritan Saves the Day
A nearby resident heard Tracy’s screams and called 911, prompting authorities to respond quickly. A good Samaritan intervened during the incident, saving Tracy from further injury. The San Bernardino County Animal Control later seized 16 unrestrained dogs from the area, emphasizing that the dogs were neither fenced nor leashed.
Owner Arrested After Investigation
Nearly a month after the attack, 61-year-old Craig Arthur Simmons was arrested on suspicion of being the owner of animals that caused serious injury or death. After interviewing him, authorities booked him into the High Desert Detention Center. Simmons’ bail was set at $30,000. The dogs involved in the attack are currently housed at the Barstow Humane Society, located approximately 17 miles from the attack site.
A Community on Edge
This incident has sparked growing concerns among Newberry Springs residents about the increasing number of stray and unrestrained dogs in the area. “We’ve faced situations where dogs suddenly rush out from a fence or straight out of nowhere, circling us,” said Kristine Watson, a local resident.
Tracy’s family has since launched a GoFundMe page to help cover her medical expenses and ongoing recovery. The campaign has already raised over $33,000 as they seek support from the community. “She was preparing for her senior year, but now her days are filled with doctor visits and rehabilitation,” the family shared. They also revealed that Tracy suffers from severe nightmares and sleepless nights following the traumatic incident.
This horrific attack not only highlights the dangers posed by stray and unmonitored dogs but also underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership to avoid future tragedies.
