A devastating incident unfolded yesterday in Bristol when a 19-year-old woman tragically lost her life following a dog attack at a flat in the Hartcliffe area.
Authorities responded swiftly to the scene, arriving at approximately 7:20 PM after receiving reports of the brutal attack.
The young woman was found at a property on Cobhorn Drive, where paramedics confirmed her death shortly after arriving.
Police Arrest Two Individuals in Connection with the Attack
In the wake of the attack, two individuals, a man and a woman both in their 20s, were arrested.
They face charges related to the death, including suspicion of being in control of a dog that was dangerously out of control, leading to injury and death.
Additionally, they have been arrested for the possession of a prohibited breed of dog.
The authorities have confirmed that the dog was sedated and taken by officers for a veterinary assessment, which will determine its exact breed, though early reports suggest it was likely an XL Bully.
Witnesses Describe Frightening Scene
Witnesses in the area were left shaken by the horrific scene.
Gary Steadman, a nearby resident, told reporters that he heard loud screaming and described the dog involved as “big, butch, and brown and white.”
Another local, Doreen Tovey, recounted the distressing moment, explaining that she ventured outside to find a heavy police presence, including numerous police cars and a riot van.
She described the situation as “very frightening.”
Investigation Underway and Increased Police Presence
Following the incident, police worked through the night, closing off Cobhorn Drive to conduct their investigation.
The road was reopened by the morning, though a strong police presence remained in the area.
Inspector Terry Murphy expressed his condolences for the victim’s family, emphasizing that they are receiving support from a family liaison officer during this difficult time.
He also thanked the officers and paramedics who tried to save the woman’s life and noted that a full investigation was underway to determine the exact events leading up to her tragic death.
Crackdown on XL Bully Dogs and Rising Dog Attacks
This attack comes amid increased public concern over XL Bully dogs.
A nationwide crackdown on the breeding and sale of this particular breed came into full effect on February 1, 2024.
The law now criminalizes owning or possessing an XL Bully without a Certificate of Exemption, making it illegal to sell or abandon these dogs.
Owners whose pets are deemed dangerously out of control can face significant penalties, including prison sentences, disqualification from ownership, or even the euthanasia of the dog.
In recent years, dog attacks have been on the rise, with police recording a significant spike in incidents.
Last year, there were over 30,000 offenses related to dog injuries, marking a 20% increase from the previous year.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely and are urging the public to be vigilant, particularly as dog bite incidents requiring hospital treatment continue to escalate.