Infant died after dog attack at Kennedy Drive residence
Des Moines police say an infant died April 3 after being attacked by a pit bull terrier inside an apartment on the 3600 block of Kennedy Drive. First responders found the child without signs of life when they arrived at the scene that morning. The dog was later euthanized.
Parents charged weeks after incident
On July 10, both adults who lived at the apartment turned themselves in after police had identified and publicly sought them earlier in the month. Authorities have charged Elderidge Graham, 37, and Kristi Haney, 30, with child endangerment causing death and three counts of child endangerment creating substantial risk.
Police say animal had shown aggression before; statements questioned
Investigators told reporters the pit bull terrier involved had a history of aggressive behavior. In the course of the probe, detectives concluded that some of the information provided to officers about how the infant was supervised did not match what they learned.
Police said statements given to them "regarding supervision of the infant were not factual."
Local implications and unanswered questions
The charges center on criminal liability tied to the environment the child was kept in and supervision before the attack. The case puts a spotlight on two ongoing concerns in Des Moines and across Iowa: public safety around dogs with prior aggression and how authorities determine criminal responsibility after family tragedies.
- Incident date: April 3 — infant found unresponsive at apartment.
- Location: 3600 block of Kennedy Drive, Des Moines.
- Defendants: Elderidge Graham, 37, and Kristi Haney, 30.
- Charges: child endangerment causing death; three counts of child endangerment creating substantial risk.
- Dog: pit bull terrier, reported previously aggressive; euthanized after the attack.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Incident date | April 3 |
| Address | 3600 block, Kennedy Drive |
| Adults charged | Elderidge Graham (37); Kristi Haney (30) |
| Charges | Child endangerment causing death; 3 counts of child endangerment creating substantial risk |
The Des Moines Police Department has not released additional details about the investigation or the timeline that led to the charges. Court records will provide more information as the case proceeds, including whether prosecutors will present evidence about prior complaints or animal control actions related to the dog.
For neighbors and parents in the city, the case is likely to renew questions about animal control enforcement and what steps residents should take when they believe an animal is a threat. City officials and public safety agencies may face renewed pressure to ensure earlier warnings or interventions when dogs show aggressive behavior.
As charges move forward, local media and court filings are the best sources for updates. News Block will continue to follow developments and report new information as it becomes available.
