Police ID Amiyah Dunston as 9-year-old killed in Elmont dog attack

Police have identified the 9-year-old girl who was killed in a dog attack in Elmont on Sunday. The girl has been identified as Amiyah Dunston, of Baldwin. Dunston was playing with two friends in

News 12 Staff

Nov 10, 2015, 3:19 AM

Updated 3,181 days ago

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Police have identified the 9-year-old girl who was killed in a dog attack in Elmont on Sunday.
The girl has been identified as Amiyah Dunston, of Baldwin.
Dunston was playing with two friends in the backyard of a home on Holland Avenue when police say a pit bull belonging to a person in an upstairs apartment attacked the girl. Police say they do not know what might have provoked the incident.
An officer shot and killed the dog after arriving at the scene. Investigators say there have never been any complaints against the animal.
Brian Willis, the victim's stepfather, says Amiyah was "a phenomenal little girl who has touched many lives with her presence, smile and laughs." He added, "We thank you for all your support and your prayers, just please let us mourn our terrible, tragic loss."
So far, there has been no charges in connection with the attack. However, the dog's owner was arraigned in court Monday on unrelated charges.
Carlyle Arnold, of Elmont, was arrested at the scene of the attack for allegedly violating an order of protection. He is being held on $10,000 bail. Officials say the 29-year-old has several prior arrests in Nassau County and out of state.
Amiyah's family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral costs for the girl.


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