The serene atmosphere of Central Park in California City was shattered on the evening of June 18, 2026, when a tragic incident unfolded. A 12-year-old boy lost his life after jumping into the park’s lake to escape from a vicious dog attack. The incident has left the community in shock and has sparked an intense manhunt for the dog’s owner, Kenneth Dobbins.
The California City Police Department received a distressing call shortly after 6 p.m. reporting a drowning in progress. Responding officers found the young boy at the bottom of the lake and immediately initiated life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, the boy was pronounced dead the following day at Children’s Hospital in Bakersfield. A 12-year-old girl, also present at the scene, suffered serious but non-life-threatening bite injuries and was later released from Antelope Valley Medical Center.
The Search for Kenneth Dobbins
Investigators quickly identified Kenneth Dobbins, a 68-year-old transient with ties to Los Angeles County and Palmdale, as the owner of the dogs involved in the attack. Dobbins was initially photographed along with his three dogs at his Lakeshore Condominiums residence but was not taken into custody at the time due to the unknown extent of the victims’ injuries.
As the investigation progressed, authorities determined that Dobbins’ dogs were indeed responsible for the attack. An arrest warrant was issued for Dobbins on charges of involuntary manslaughter and negligent ownership of a mischievous animal causing serious bodily injury and/or death. However, when police attempted to serve the warrant on June 23, they discovered that Dobbins had fled.
One of the dogs involved in the attack was later found and seized in Los Angeles County. The California City Police Department is actively seeking information on Dobbins’ whereabouts and the location of his remaining dogs. Dobbins is described as a 6’6″ tall, 250-pound man with gray hair and brown eyes.
The Community Responds
The tragic loss of the 12-year-old boy, identified as Fernando Torres Moreno, has deeply affected the California City community. A GoFundMe page set up for the family has raised over $10,000 to support them during this difficult time. Fernando’s family described him as a bright, loving boy who brought joy to everyone around him.
“Fernando was ready for a great day at the park with his friends and family, but tragedy took him from us too soon,” the family shared on the GoFundMe page. The page also highlights Fernando’s love for the outdoors, playing with his siblings, and making new friends. The community’s outpouring of support reflects the profound impact Fernando had on those around him.
Ongoing Investigation
The California City Police Department is urging anyone with information about Kenneth Dobbins’ whereabouts to come forward. Lieutenant Shannon Hayes can be contacted at shayes@ or at (760) 373-8606. Authorities advise that anyone encountering Dobbins should immediately contact their local law enforcement agency.
The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The community continues to mourn the loss of Fernando Torres Moreno and hopes for justice to be served.
