An 84-year-old man has died after being attacked by an XL Bully dog in Warrington, Cheshire. The tragic incident occurred on February 24 when the pensioner was dragged into a garden and mauled while walking home on Bardsley Avenue.
Deadly Attack
Emergency services were called to the scene after the dog, which had escaped, launched a brutal attack on the elderly man. Armed police arrived and shot the XL Bully dead, while a second XL Bully was also shot 19 times before being subdued. A third smaller dog was seized from the property.
The victim sustained severe injuries and was rushed to Aintree Hospital in Liverpool, where he fought for his life for more than a month. Despite the best efforts of medical teams, he succumbed to his injuries yesterday (March 30).
Police Statement
Detective Inspector Simon Mills expressed his condolences, saying:
This was a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the family of the victim at this difficult time. The victim fought so hard since the attack, but sadly his injuries were too much. Nobody should have to go through what they have experienced, and our specialist officers are providing them with the support they need at this truly awful time.”
Legal Proceedings
A 30-year-old man from Warrington has been charged in connection with the incident. He faces one count of being the owner of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing serious injury, and two counts of possessing or keeping a dog to which section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 applies, specifically an XL Bully.
The Crown Prosecution Service has been informed of the victim’s death and will determine whether to amend the charges.
Controversy Surrounding XL Bullies
The incident has reignited concerns about XL Bully dogs, which were banned in 2023 following a series of fatal attacks involving the breed. In the three years prior to the ban, 23 people died as a result of attacks involving XL Bullies.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, it is now a legal requirement to keep XL Bullies on a lead and muzzled at all times in public. Breeding, selling, advertising, gifting, abandoning, or allowing XL Bullies to stray are strictly prohibited.
The victim’s family has been informed of his death and are being supported by specialist officers. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the attack.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by dangerous dogs and the responsibility of owners to ensure public safety. Further legal updates will follow as the case progresses.
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