A four-year-old boy suffered multiple bite wounds after an off-leash dog attacked him at a Tamarama playground, prompting a community appeal to identify the owner.
Timeline Of The Attack
The incident occurred late morning on 24 July at Marks Park Playground, a beachside reserve in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The child, Jagger, had been playing on the swings with his family nearby when a dog described as a terrier or pit bull cross charged at him.
Witnesses said the animal jumped, pulled and bit the boy for several minutes before the owner intervened. The owner, a man about 183cm tall with a medium-to-large build, reportedly took more than a minute to restrain the dog.
Injuries And Treatment
Jagger sustained deep puncture wounds to his leg, chest and arm. Nearby construction workers gave first aid while the family left the park to assess his injuries.
He was treated at Randwick Children’s Hospital and now requires daily GP visits for wound care and medication. His mother said both sons remain distressed, and the family is avoiding places where dogs may be present.
Disputed Circumstances
The family said the owner claimed it was a dog park and that the boy would be unhurt. Council rules allow off-leash dogs at Marks Park only before 8:30 am and after 4:30 pm, and at least 10 metres from play equipment.
A bystander told the family he tried to follow the man after the attack, but the owner allegedly left before authorities arrived.
Community Response And Investigation
Waverley Council has confirmed it is making every effort to locate the dog and owner. Officials are reviewing CCTV footage and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The family hopes the incident will prompt the council to consider fencing the playground to separate play areas from spaces where dogs are permitted.
Published 06-August-2025