Horror as young woman, 19, dies after dog attack

A young woman has died after being attacked by a dog at a flat in Bristol.

Police attended an address in the Hartcliffe area of the city on Wednesday alongside the ambulance service, but despite their efforts the 19-year-old victim tragically died at the scene.

The teenagers family are being supported by a specially trained officer.

A man and a woman have been arrested following the attack at about 7pm yesterday at the property in Cobhorn Drive, south Bristol.

The dog involved has been put down and will be assessed by experts, Neighbourhood Inspector Terry Murphy of Avon and Somerset Police has said.

Initial veterinary reports suggest it may belong to the XL Bully breed. Police say confirming the breed will form part of the assessment process.

Speaking at a press conference in Bristol today, Thursday February 27, inspector Murphy 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.

The man and 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.

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.”

Neighbours have described seeing a huge emergency response as police and paramedics attended the scene.

A local witness told BristolLive that officers and a police helicopter were in the area at around 9:30pm on Wednesday, February 26. It is believed the road reopened at earlier this morning.

Under a law chamge it's been illegal to own an XL Bully dog in England and Wales since February 1, 2024, unless you have a valid Certificate of Exemption.

Anyone with information should call 101 and give reference number 5225051097, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.