A Southern California family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 12-year-old Fernando Torres Moreno, who died after entering a lake while trying to get away from three dogs during a tragic incident at a local park.

The incident occurred on June 18 at Central Park Lake in California City. What began as a routine afternoon outdoors quickly turned into a devastating tragedy that has left Fernando’s family and the local community in deep sorrow.

According to authorities, Fernando and another child were near the park when three dogs suddenly began chasing them. In an attempt to escape, Fernando entered the lake but disappeared beneath the water before he could make it back to shore.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and launched an immediate search. Fernando was located in the water and rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite extensive life-saving efforts by medical personnel, he pᴀssed away on June 19 due to complications related to the incident.

A young girl who was also involved suffered dog bite injuries that were not considered life-threatening. She was treated at a hospital and later released in stable condition.

Investigators later confirmed that the dogs involved are believed to belong to 68-year-old Kenneth Dobbins, who was reportedly at the park when the incident occurred. Witnesses identified him at the scene, although he initially stated that his dogs had remained under control.

As the investigation progressed, detectives concluded that the dogs involved were connected to Dobbins, prompting a criminal investigation. When authorities later returned to execute a search warrant, they found that Dobbins and the three dogs had already left the area.

Police have since located and seized one of the dogs in Los Angeles County. However, Dobbins and the remaining two dogs have not yet been found. Authorities continue searching for them and are asking the public to report any relevant information.

The California City Police Department has described Dobbins as a transient with previous felony convictions and known ties to California City and Palmdale. He is approximately 6 feet 6 inches tall, weighs around 250 pounds, and has gray hair and brown eyes.

Investigators continue working to establish a complete timeline of the events and determine exactly what occurred before and after the incident. Officials say the investigation remains active.

Meanwhile, Fernando’s family is facing the unimaginable loss of a young boy remembered for his joyful spirit, kindness, and love for spending time outdoors with family and friends. Loved ones describe him as a bright child whose warmth and energy touched everyone around him.

A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help the family with funeral expenses and provide support during this difficult time. Community members have shared countless messages of sympathy, remembering Fernando as a caring and friendly child whose life ended far too soon.

Teachers, classmates, neighbors, and friends have also expressed their grief, saying his absence is already deeply felt throughout the community. Many hope his memory will inspire greater awareness of public safety and responsible pet ownership.

Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information about Kenneth Dobbins or the remaining dogs to contact law enforcement. While the investigation moves forward, Fernando’s loved ones are left honoring the memory of a boy whose life was tragically cut short, hoping that answers—and accountability—will eventually bring them some measure of peace.