Woman dies after dog attack inside Bristol flat

Two people have been arrested and a woman has died after she was attacked by a dog in the Withywood area of Bristol yesterday (26th February).

At 7.19pm, police received a report from the ambulance service of the incident, which took place inside a flat in Cobhorn Drive.

Officers attended alongside the ambulance service but despite their efforts, the 19-year-old victim died at the scene.

Her family have been informed and are being supported by a specially trained officer.

Two people, a man and a woman both aged in their 20s, were arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death and possession of a prohibited breed of dog.

They remain in police custody.

The dog was sedated and seized, and has been put down, Neighbourhood Inspector Terry Murphy of Avon and Somerset Police has said.

Initial reports suggested it may be an XL Bully, but confirming the breed will form part of the assessment process.

Speaking at a press conference in Bristol, he declined to comment on whether the woman who died lived at the address where the incident happened or if there had been previous police contact with the household.

Eye witnesses report seeing armed police officers and a police helicopter in the area last night (26th February).

Terry Murphy said: “Our thoughts, first and foremost, are with the family of the young woman who’s tragically died as a result of yesterday evening’s incident.

“I’d also like to thank the officers and paramedics who attended yesterday evening and tried to save her life. Support is in place for them.

“A full investigation is now well underway to establish the full circumstances of the events that led to her death.

“As part of this work, Cobhorn Drive was closed last night and I thank everyone for their patience and understanding about our need to do this.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area over the coming days, including neighbourhood officers, and if you have any concerns please do speak to them.”

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