Pit bull seriously injures toddler who apparently tried to hug dog

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. - A pit bull seriously injured a 19-month-old boy in suburban Denver Sunday night when the dog bit the toddler's face and wouldn't let go, CBS Denver reports.

Witnesses in Commerce City, Colorado said the boy, whose name hasn't been released, tried to give the dog a hug when it bit and wouldn't release. The boy was hospitalized with injuries to his face and neck. The dog later died from asphyxiation as a result of the of restraint process.

"I have seen dog fights, but I have never seen a dog attack a baby," a witness told CBS4. "It's sad, real sad. I just hope the little baby survives."

Police said the boy and his mother were traveling with a group of transients who had parked in an empty lot for the night. The dog's owner is with the group. Police said they believe the dog was leashed.

Pit bulls are illegal in Commerce City.