A murder investigation has been launched after a man was fatally injured by a dog on a North East housing estate.
Shortly before 6.55pm on Tuesday (October 3) police received a report that a dog had injured a man outside of an address on Maple Terrace in Shiney Row.
Emergency services attended the scene and the man, aged 54, was taken to hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries.
Read more: Murder probe launched as man dies after 'XL Bully' attack
Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he sadly passed away last night.
The man’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially-trained officers. We ask their privacy is respected at this difficult time.
Read more: Dad mauled to death in horrific 'XL Bully' attack as tributes pour in
A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm. Following the man’s death, he has since been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody at this time.
The dog was destroyed at the scene to ensure the safety of the public.
Read more: American Bully XL dog breed will be banned by end of 2023
While further assessment will be carried out, officers believe the dog to be an XL Bully breed.
A second dog, also believed to be an XL Bully breed, was also seized as a precaution.
Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and officers will remain in the area.
Read more: XL bully dogs ‘a danger to our communities’, Prime Minister insists
Detective Chief Inspector Angela Hudson, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the man’s family and loved ones.
“This is an absolutely tragic incident, and we will continue to offer them support in any way that we can.
“A full investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances of what has happened.
Read next:
- Shiney Row dog attack LIVE: Man dies after attack as murder investigation launched
- Shiney Row dog attack: What we know as man seriously injured
- One arrested as dog attacks man on Maple Terrace, Shiney Row
“I would like to reassure the wider community that there is no ongoing risk to them, and officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance and carry out enquiries.
“While our investigation is at an early stage, we do believe those involved were known to each other.
“I would also continue to ask people not to speculate about the incident online, including on social media, while enquiries are ongoing.”
Anyone with concerns or information about what has happened is encouraged to speak with an officer on duty.
Members of the public can also get in touch using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website or call 101 quoting reference number NP-20231003-0979.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel