A California family is reeling after what should have been an ordinary walk turned into a life-altering nightmare. 17-year-old Tracy Hurtado was viciously attacked by more than 10 dogs in her Newberry Springs neighborhood on July 17, suffering devastating injuries that left her nearly unrecognizable.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the dogs’ bites “caused large lacerations, abrasions, and removed flesh.”
Hurtado endured more than 100 bites and required over 500 stitches to repair the damage.
A Mother’s Devastating Discovery
Hurtado’s mother, Maria Azpeitia, recalled rushing to the scene after hearing the news. She said her daughter was covered in wounds and dirt to the point she couldn’t recognize her, except for her bra.
“I didn’t know who she was. She was so dirty — covered in dirt. I recognized her bra. That’s what I recognized,” Azpeitia told ABC 7.
What broke her heart most was her daughter’s first words after the brutal mauling: “Mom, am I still pretty?”
Brutality of the Attack
Hurtado’s stepfather, Carlos Ramirez, told reporters that the attack spared no part of her body.
“They bit every part of her body you could think of, except for her ankles,” he said.
Authorities confirmed that a neighbor who heard Tracy’s cries called 911, likely saving her life.
Arrest of the Alleged Dog Owner
Nearly a month later, on Aug. 13, investigators arrested Craig Arthur Simmons, 61, who is believed to be the owner of the dogs.
He has been charged under California Penal Code 399(b): owner of an animal causing serious bodily injury or death.
Road to Recovery
Instead of preparing for her senior year of high school, Tracy is now focused on doctor’s appointments, rehabilitation, and recovery.
Her family says she struggles with nightmares and difficulty sleeping in the wake of the attack.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Hurtado family as they navigate mounting medical expenses and long-term care needs.
This tragic case has reignited discussions about animal control laws, owner responsibility, and community safety, with many calling for stricter enforcement to prevent similar attacks in the future.
For Tracy, however, the battle is deeply personal, one of healing, resilience, and holding onto her sense of identity after unimaginable trauma.
