Malton dog attack: Police issue update on death of 10 year old girl

North Yorkshire Police say a 10-year-old girl had a "close, loving relationship" with her family's dog before it attacked and killed her.

She died from injuries caused by a suspected XL bully in Malton on Friday 1st November.

A post-mortem examination is taking place this evening (Sunday 3rd November).

The animal involved was seized and police say it will be destroyed.

North Yorkshire Police statement

North Yorkshire Police is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a 10-year-old girl in the Malton area.

She suffered serious injuries after being bitten by the family’s dog while at home at around 4.15pm on Friday (1 November 2024).

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.

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.

Due to the circumstances of the incident, the dog will be destroyed.

A post-mortem examination of the girl is taking place this (Sunday 3 November 2024) evening.

We are not yet in a position to name the girl at this time. She will be formally identified in due course.

Further updates will be posted on the force website and social media channels.

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.

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