July 11, 2025

Lawsuit Filed After 11-Year-Old Boy Attacked by Dogs

News Summary

A lawsuit has been filed against Laurens County and the town of Clinton following a brutal dog attack that left an 11-year-old boy with severe injuries. The boy, A’Rhyan Anderson, was attacked by a pack of dogs while heading to a bus stop, resulting in over 60 bites and exorbitant medical costs. His mother, Amy Lowe, seeks accountability from local authorities for their negligence regarding prior complaints about loose dogs. This incident has sparked renewed discussions on animal control measures in the community.

Clinton, South Carolina – A lawsuit has been filed against Laurens County and the town of Clinton after an 11-year-old boy was brutally attacked by a pack of dogs earlier this year. The incident, which occurred on February 14, 2024, has raised serious concerns over animal control and public safety in the area.

A’Rhyan Anderson was on his way to a bus stop at approximately 7:40 a.m. when he was attacked by the dogs. During the assault, he sustained over 60 bites, leading to life-threatening injuries. A neighbor intervened, managing to save A’Rhyan’s life before emergency services arrived. He was airlifted to Greenville Memorial Hospital, where he spent 33 days undergoing multiple surgeries and intensive physical therapy.

The medical expenses related to A’Rhyan’s treatment exceed $639,000, prompting his mother, Amy Lowe, to seek compensation for what her son and the family have endured. The lawsuit accuses both Laurens County and Clinton of negligence and claims they failed to take appropriate action despite previous complaints from residents regarding uncontrolled dogs in the neighborhood.

Before the attack, residents had lodged at least six complaints about loose dogs in the area, raising concerns about public safety. However, animal control operations did not follow up on these complaints nor did they issue any citations. As a result, the lawsuit claims that the authorities violated South Carolina’s Dangerous Animal Statute by neglecting their duty to enact proper animal control measures and procedures. At the time of the incident, the town of Clinton had no dedicated animal control services and relied on Laurens County for assistance.

The aftereffects of the attack have been profoundly traumatic for A’Rhyan and his family. His mother describes enduring flashbacks, anxiety, and the reality that her son will bear permanent scars from the vicious encounter. The lawsuit seeks damages for past and future medical expenses, ongoing therapy costs, pain and suffering, and the permanent injuries sustained by A’Rhyan.

Field Dunaway, the attorney representing the Lowe family, has highlighted the necessity for accountability and systemic reform to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. In response to the incident, the dogs involved in the attack were euthanized by police. Following the attack, Clinton has allocated budget funds for a part-time animal control officer to help address safety concerns.

Both Laurens County and the town of Clinton have declined to comment on the ongoing litigation. Amy Lowe has made it clear that she is not seeking pity but rather wants to drive progress and ensure the safety of children at bus stops. She hopes that the lawsuit will lead to changes that will prevent such dangerous situations from happening again in the community.

The lawsuit has reignited discussions about the need for improved animal control measures and the responsibilities of local authorities to protect residents, especially children. As this case unfolds, its implications may have lasting effects on how animal-related incidents are managed across South Carolina.

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Lawsuit Filed After Severe Dog Attack in Clinton, SC
Lawsuit Filed After Child Attacked by Dogs Near School Bus Stop

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.