A tragic incident has occurred in Bristol, where a 19-year-old woman lost her life after being attacked by a dog believed to be an XL Bully, according to Avon and Somerset Police. This breed of dog was banned last year due to a series of alarming attacks that resulted in fatalities.
Following the fatal encounter on Wednesday evening, two individuals have been taken into custody. Police received a call regarding the incident at a flat located on Cobhorn Drive in the Hartcliffe area at 7:19 PM. Emergency services, including paramedics, responded promptly, but despite their best efforts, the young woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s family has been notified, and they are currently receiving support from a specially trained officer assigned by Avon and Somerset Police. The authorities apprehended a man and a woman, both in their twenties, on charges related to having control over a dangerously out-of-control dog that caused injury resulting in death, as well as possession of a prohibited breed. Both individuals remain in police custody as investigations continue.
The dog involved in the attack has been sedated and seized for further evaluation by veterinary experts. Initial reports indicated that the breed might be an XL Bully, but confirming its exact breed will be part of the ongoing assessment process, police noted.
What the XL Bully Ban Means
The ban on XL Bullies came into force on February 1, 2024. Since then, it has been illegal to own this breed without an exemption certificate. The deadline for submitting applications for these certificates was 12 PM on January 31, 2024, and new exemptions can only be granted through a court order. This action followed an earlier prohibition on rehoming, selling, or transferring ownership of XL Bullies that began on December 31, 2023.
Individuals found in possession of an XL Bully without an exemption certificate face potential criminal charges and may incur an unlimited fine, along with the possibility of having their dog seized. Additionally, XL Bullies are required to be microchipped, neutered, and securely contained to prevent them from escaping. It is also illegal to:
- Abandon an XL Bully or allow it to stray
- Breed or attempt to breed from an XL Bully
- Take an XL Bully into public spaces without a lead and muzzle
Neighbourhood Inspector Terry Murphy expressed his condolences, stating, “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.” He also extended gratitude to the officers and paramedics who responded to the scene in their efforts to save the victim’s life, acknowledging the emotional toll this incident may have on them.
“A full investigation is now underway to establish the complete circumstances surrounding this tragic event,” he added. Cobhorn Drive was cordoned off for the investigation, and the police appreciate the cooperation of the community during this time. An increased police presence will be maintained in the area over the coming days, and residents are encouraged to approach neighbourhood officers with any concerns they may have.
Authorities are appealing for anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
