11-Year-Old Georgia Boy Survives Brutal Dog Attack After Friend Helps Fight Off Three Dogs

An 11-year-old Georgia boy is recovering after being attacked by three dogs in Axson, an ordeal that left him with 17 open wounds and required hours of surgery.

Banner O’Berry, from Atkinson County, was riding a four-wheeler with his best friend on the afternoon of September 13 when the ATV broke down near Wood Duck Road. According to Banner’s mother and the Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office, the boys were trying to deal with the vehicle when three dogs suddenly ran toward them.

The boys climbed onto the four-wheeler in an attempt to escape. But one of the dogs grabbed Banner by the ankle and pulled him from the vehicle, after which all three dogs attacked.

Banner fought back with a pair of pliers he had been using while working on the ATV. His friend, Karson Clayton, also tried to protect him, throwing objects at the dogs, screaming for them to stop and calling nearby adults for help. Karson’s parents arrived after he called for assistance.

The attack left Banner with 17 open wounds on his legs. He was taken to Coffee Regional Medical Center, where doctors performed approximately three and a half hours of surgery to treat and close his injuries.

According to the sheriff’s office, the main attacking dog was identified as a pit bull. The breeds of the other two dogs have not been officially identified by authorities. All three animals were taken into custody for a 10-day observation period while the investigation continues.

Authorities have also begun proceedings to have the dogs declared “vicious dogs.” The legal process could lead to additional restrictions and safeguards involving the animals. No arrests had been announced in the latest reports.

Despite the severity of his injuries, Banner has continued to show his support for his football team. While recovering in a wheelchair, he attended a September 16 game and cheered from the sidelines, with bandages still visible on his legs.

His recovery has also highlighted the role his friend played during the attack. Banner’s family has publicly credited Karson with staying beside him, fighting to get the dogs away and getting help when Banner needed it most.

Banner remains on the road to recovery, while authorities continue investigating the attack and determining the next steps