Family dog to be destroyed following 10-year-old girl’s death

Police have announced that a family dog responsible for the death of a 10-year-old girl within her residence will be destroyed. The girl sustained severe injuries after being bitten by her dog at home in the Malton area around 16:15 GMT on Friday. Despite the efforts of medical professionals and a member of the public who came to the family’s aid, the girl died at the scene, according to police. Their initial inquiries indicated that the attack was “out-of-character” and that the girl and dog had “a close, loving relationship.” North Yorkshire Police stated it was “conducting detailed inquiries covering all aspects of the incident.” The force communicated: “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.” The force confirmed that “due to the circumstances of the incident, the dog will be destroyed.” A post-mortem examination of the girl was scheduled to occur later on Sunday. A spokesperson added that the girl would be “formally identified in due course.” A member of the public went to assist the family after the attack, prior to the arrival of emergency services. The dog had been secured inside a car by a family member and was subsequently seized by officers who transported it to secure kennels. The force conveyed: “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.”