Hyannis Port, Mass. — In a tragic turn of events that has struck one of America’s most storied families, Kerry Kennedy’s beloved dog Bellini was fatally attacked on a local beach just hours after the death of Kennedy’s mother, Ethel Kennedy. The small fluffy dog was killed in what was described as a sudden and violent assault by a neighbor’s dog.
The loss of Ethel Kennedy, who died on Oct. 10 at the age of 96 due to complications from a stroke, marked a day of double tragedy for the Kennedy family as they grappled with the sudden death of both the family matriarch and Bellini. Kerry Kennedy, 65, expressed her profound shock and sadness over the incidents on social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter.
Describing the ordeal, Kerry Kennedy recalled the horrifying moments on the beach with her daughter, Michaela Kennedy-Cuomo: “A neighborhood dog charged unexpectedly and fatally mauled Bellini. It was an incident of unspeakable violence and terror.” Kerry Kennedy sought consolation in the thought that perhaps her mother wanted a companion for her journey, suggesting Bellini was now with Ethel Kennedy.
In her social media post, Kennedy shared numerous memories of Bellini, showcasing the dog in various joyful moments — from picturesque scenes across Europe to quiet moments nestled in her arms. These images painted a picture of a life filled with affection and adventure, underscoring the depth of the bond between her and Bellini.
Kennedy also reflected on the response from her neighbor, whose dog was responsible for the attack. She commended the neighbor’s humane handling of the aftermath, emphasizing their daily communications and mutual grief over the loss of their beloved pets. The neighbor has since relocated his dog.
She wrote, “Reflecting on the episode, I am heartbroken to have lost my beautiful companion, and I also am grateful to have a neighbor who, instead of deflecting responsibility, chose a path of acknowledgement and compassion.”
Michaela Kennedy-Cuomo also participated in mourning publicly, turning to X to express her sorrow and unexpected loss of both her grandmother and Bellini on the same profound day. She expressed a heartfelt message, reflecting on the profound impact of both losses while acknowledging the eerie beauty of the aurora borealis that illuminated the night sky over Hyannis Port as they mourned. She described the natural light display as a “welcome home party strobe lights” for her grandmother and Bellini.
The deaths have touched the wider community in Hyannis Port, a location synonymous with the Kennedy family legacy, adding a somber note to the family’s significant historical narrative. As the Kennedys navigate this period of mourning, the dual loss of Ethel and Bellini serves as a poignant reminder of the family’s well-documented acquaintance with both personal and public grief.