Investigation continuing into death of 10-year-old girl in North Yorkshire dog attack
The dog will now be destroyed.
Last updated 4th Nov 2024
An investigation is continuing this morning, after a ten-year-old girl died in a dog attack in North Yorkshire.
She was bitten by the pet in the family's home in the Malton area, and died at the scene after suffering serious injuries.
Initial enquiries by police have been looking at the behaviour of the dog - which was reportedly an XL Bully.
Officers say it had had a loving relationship with the girl up until the attack - but it will now have to be destroyed as a result of what happened.
The force said;
"Officers are conducting detailed inquiries covering all aspects of the incident.
"One of the lines of inquiry 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."
A member of the public went to help the family and Yorkshire Ambulance Service attended.
A family member secured the dog inside a car before emergency services arrived, they added.
The animal was later seized by officers who took it to secure kennels.
The girl has not been named by police and a post-mortem examination is taking place on Sunday evening.
North Yorkshire Police added:
"Our thoughts remain with the girl's family and friends at this very distressing time. Officers are supporting the family while inquiries continue.
"We also urge people not to speculate about the incident, respect the family's privacy and allow them to grieve in peace.
"We will provide more information when we are able to."