Police have issued an update on the girl who was killed by her family’s dog in the Malton area.
As we reported yesterday, the ten-year-old girl suffered serious injuries after being bitten by the family’s dog while at home at around 4.15pm on Friday (1 November).
Despite the efforts of medical professionals and a member of the public who came to the family’s aid, the girl sadly died at the scene.
According to national reports, the family live in the village of East Heslerton, and the dog was an XL Bully.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Officers are conducting detailed enquiries covering all aspects of the incident.
“One of the lines of enquiry relates to the behaviour of the dog to help explain, as far as possible, why it attacked the girl.
“All indications so far suggest it was out-of-character, with the girl and dog having a close, loving relationship.”
The dog will be destroyed, police said.
A post-mortem examination of the girl is taking place this evening.
“We are not yet in a position to name the girl at this time. She will be formally identified in due course,” the spokesperson added.
“In the meantime, we again urge people not to speculate about the incident and to respect the family’s wish for privacy to grieve in peace.
“Our officers are continuing to support the family while enquiries continue.”
