A young woman has died following a dog attack in Bristol. Emergency services were called to Cobhorn Drive, Withywood, on Wednesday, February 26 after reports a young woman was attacked by a dog inside a flat.
Avon and Somerset Police were called at 7.19pm by the South Western Ambulance Service. Despite receiving medical attention from paramedics, a 19-year-old woman died at the scene. Her family have been informed, the force said in a statement.
Two people have been arrested in connection with the attack. A man and a woman, both 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 by police officers at the scene and will now be subject to assessments by veterinary experts. Avon and Somerset Police say initial reports suggests the dog may be an XL Bully but the breed has yet to be confirmed and this will be part of the assessment process.
A local witness told BristolLive that officers and a police helicopter were in the area at around 9.30pm on Wednesday, February 26. The road was reportedly still closed at around 9.30am this morning (Thursday, February 27), according to traffic monitoring site Inrix. It was reopened later in the morning.
Neighbourhood Inspector 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. They have been updated and will be supported by a family liaison officer.
“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.”