First pictures of ‘treasured’ boy, 5, who was mauled to death by a dog on Christmas Eve revealed

The first heartbreaking photos of the five-year-old boy who was mauled to death by a dog on Christmas Eve have been revealed as he is remembered as a ‘treasure’. 

Emmanuel, or Manny as he was known to loved ones, was attacked by the dog while housesitting at a property in Varsity Lakes on the Gold Coast on Friday. 

The little boy was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital for emergency surgery but died on the operating table just hours before Christmas Day.

Manny’s grandmother tried in vain to rescue the little boy during the shock attack and received injuries to her hands and arms.

Gold Coast City Council animal control officers removed two dogs from the property, including an English bull terrier-American bulldog cross

A neighbour who witnessed the reportedly unprovoked attack propelled jumped over a fence to help save the little boy.

A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson said the five-year-old was bitten on the back and chest before going into cardiac arrest.  

Craig Kavanagh, who describes himself as a friend of the family, has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for Manny’s single father. 

‘Angus is a single father who is very dedicated to providing the best for his little bud. Manny was Angus’ world. His love for his son was immeasurable,’ he wrote. 

‘We are trying to raise funds to help Angus in this tragically difficult time. Manny was a treasure and what has happened has left a lot of people in shock and sadness.’ 

A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson said the the five-year-old was bitten on the back and chest before going into cardiac arrest (pictured, dog catchers at the scene)

The mixed breed believed to be responsible for the attack remains in a council pound as police continue their inquiries (pictured, a street in Gold Coast suburb Varsity Lakes)

The fundraiser has already surpassed its goal of $10,000 in less than eight hours with all donations to go towards Manny’s funeral expenses. 

‘Sending love and prayers to all of the family,’ one donor wrote.  

Gold Coast City Council animal control officers removed two dogs from the property, including an English bull terrier-American bulldog cross.  

The mixed breed is believed to be responsible for the attack and remains in a council pound as police continue their inquiries.

The city council and the Coroner will also launch their own investigations.