OAKLAND – A pit bull, quarantined by Oakland Animal Services after severely biting a child, was stolen from the shelter last week, just hours before it was slated for euthanasia. The theft, which occurred via a broken window, has prompted concern among city officials regarding public safety.The dog had been in custody for over a month following an incident in East Oakland where it lunged at and severely bit a girl under the age of 10 who was riding a bicycle. The animal was reportedly tied to an RV when the attack occurred, leading to its seizure by animal control.Deputy City Administrator Joe DeVries, who serves as the shelter’s acting director, expressed significant alarm over the incident. "The dog is vicious. It’s a dangerous animal and should not be out," DeVries stated, underscoring the potential risk the animal poses to the community. The theft was discovered the day before the dog’s scheduled euthanasia.Authorities are now investigating the break-in and the whereabouts of the stolen pit bull. The incident highlights the challenges faced by animal services in managing dangerous animals and ensuring both public safety and the welfare of animals under their care. The Oakland Animal Services facility is responsible for responding to animal-related calls, including investigating bites and regulating animal activities within the city.The ongoing investigation aims to locate the animal and identify those responsible for its theft. The community is urged to exercise caution as the dog remains at large, posing a continued threat given its history of aggression.