Tragic Dog Attack Claims Life of Three-Month-Old Baby in Dormanstown
A devastating dog attack in Dormanstown has resulted in the death of a three-month-old baby girl, with police arresting a 45-year-old man as part of their investigation into the tragic incident.
Police Response and Arrest
Cleveland Police were called to a property on Hardale Grove in Dormanstown on Thursday, April 9, at approximately 1:30pm following reports of concern for a child. Upon arrival, armed officers were forced to destroy one dog at the scene, with neighbors reporting hearing a gunshot. A second dog was later recovered from the property and subsequently put down after being taken into police custody.
The 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death. Following questioning, he has been released on conditional bail pending further investigation.
Police Statement and Investigation Details
Cleveland Police issued a statement confirming the tragic details: "A three-month-old girl sadly died at the home on Hardale Grove after police were called to reports of concern for the child. Both dogs were assessed by a specialist officer, and they have been deemed not to be a prohibited type of dog. An investigation into the girl's death is ongoing and at this stage officers are treating it as a result of a dog bite."
In addition to the baby's death, a 31-year-old woman suffered an injury to her arm as a result of the dog bite and received treatment at hospital.
Community Impact and Police Appeal
Chief Superintendent Rachel Stockdale, Head of Local Policing at Cleveland Police, expressed condolences to the family: "Our thoughts continue to be with the child's family following this tragic and distressing incident. I want to take this opportunity to request that their privacy is respected during this difficult time."
The police have maintained a scene at the property with a visible policing presence as the investigation continues. Chief Superintendent Stockdale added: "I encourage anyone who has concerns to please speak to an officer. We are also appealing to anyone with information, mobile or doorbell and dash cam footage to get in touch."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Cleveland Police on 101 or via their website, quoting reference number 066204.
