It’s every parent’s worst nightmare — and one that could have been prevented.

Alyssa Smith, 33, from Ohio, has been sentenced to the maximum prison term after her six-month-old baby, Royal Bates, was mauled to death by a pit bull she knew was dangerous. Prosecutors said she and her boyfriend, Blake Bates, left little Royal alone with the animal — despite knowing it had a history of aggression.

When officers arrived, the scene was devastating. “She ignored every warning,” said Prosecutor Ray Grogan. “That choice cost an innocent baby his life.” Royal, described by loved ones as “a smiley little boy who adored his sister,” died from severe injuries at the hospital.

The dog was put down, and Bates now faces sentencing for involuntary manslaughter. The judge called the case “a tragedy born from recklessness.”

As Grogan warned, “Parents must protect their children above all — because one moment of neglect can destroy everything.”

Hold your loved ones close tonight. Some mistakes can never be undone.