BEXAR COUNTY, TX – A terrifying incident unfolded in Bexar County when a one-year-old boy succumbed to injuries sustained from an attack by his babysitter’s dogs. The boy’s mother, Erika Castro, shared her grief and shock from University Hospital, where her son was being treated in the ICU.
The heartbreaking ordeal has left Castro devastated, struggling to come to terms with the loss of her only child, Jiryiah Johnson. She expressed her anguish, describing panic attacks and an inability to fully process the situation.
The babysitter, Heather Rodriguez, 36, is facing severe legal consequences. She was charged with causing serious bodily injury to a child by omission and arrested at her residence, where the incident took place.
Castro revealed that she was aware Rodriguez kept dogs but was reassured they would be kept away from Jiryiah. However, when Rodriguez left for work, she left the baby with her 13-year-old daughter. Despite the closed bedroom doors intended to block the dogs, the animals managed to breach the room.
Sheriff Javier Salazar explained that the dogs had previously damaged the door, allowing them access. The teenage girl valiantly defended the baby, eventually managing to call 911 after a prolonged struggle.
Sheriff Salazar praised the young girl’s courage in the face of danger, and Castro shared her gratitude for the teen’s efforts, acknowledging her fight to protect Jiryiah. Despite seeking justice, Castro’s immediate focus was on her son’s recovery, noting his gradual progress.
Jiryiah was remembered as a joyful child with a love for dinosaurs and the animated series Bluey. As the family seeks prayers and financial support, Castro expressed appreciation for any help offered.
In the aftermath, Heather Rodriguez remains in custody at the Bexar County Jail, held on bonds amounting to $100,000.