A three-year-old child was severely bitten by a dog on Monday afternoon. The child was transported to Tampa General Hospital, where she was undergoing treatment.

According to police, emergency assistance was dispatched to the 8010 Tommy Court in Palm River. Deputies said the owner of the pit bull mix, Ms. Tanya Okeke, had reportedly tied the dog up to the hand rail near her apartment and was preparing to give the dog a bath.

The victim, has been identified as Destiny McKenzie, 3, daughter of Ms. Akesha Williams. The child was outside playing near the dog with other small children when she apparently fell within the dog’s reach.

For unknown reasons, the dog broke free of the owner’s control and bit the child on the face and would not let go until the owner struck the dog in the head with her fist.

The victim received a severe laceration to her face. She was transported to Tampa General Hospital, where she is listed in serious condition.

The Hillsborough County Animal Control took possession of the dog and that agency will continue to investigate.