Father Accused in Daughter's Fatal Dog Attack Challenges Evidence

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A Cincinnati man accused of involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, and endangering children in the death of his 3-year-old daughter Kingsley Wright took the stand in his bench trial, challenging the evidence and police testimony against him. Warren Houston testified that he tried to limit his pit bulls' time around his daughter and that the dogs were secured in their cage when he went to bed the night she died. The defense aimed to raise doubts about whether the dogs could have escaped if the cage was properly latched, and whether a woman staying with Houston that night may have failed to secure the cage.

Why it matters

This case has sparked a broader debate about the dangers of pit bulls and whether owners can be held criminally liable if their dogs attack and kill a child. It also raises questions about parental responsibility and the need for stronger regulations around dangerous dogs in homes with young children.

The details

Houston testified that he tried to keep the dogs in their cage when his daughter was present, and said the girl and dogs briefly interacted without incident. However, prosecutors pressed him on whether pit bulls are inherently dangerous, and questioned why there was no barrier between the dogs and the child. They also raised concerns about Houston's hearing loss and whether he would have been able to hear an emergency with his door closed.

• The incident occurred on the night of April 17, 2026.
• The bench trial began on April 18, 2026.

What’s next

The trial is scheduled to resume on Monday with possible rebuttal witnesses or closing arguments. Because it is a bench trial, Judge Virginia Tallent will decide the verdict.