Baby girl killed at home by out-of-control dog that family 'only bought a week ago'
A BABY girl has tragically died after being attacked by an out-of-control dog that her family "only bought a week ago" at her home.
The 17-month-old tot was savaged by the animal in Blackbrook, St Helens, at around 3.50pm on Monday afternoon.
Emergency services rushed the toddler to hospital where she sadly died of her horrific injuries.
Her family are said to be "devastated" by her death and had only purchased the dog just a week ago, police announced.
Cops are now working to find the previous owner and establish its history.
The animal was taken by Merseyside Police and humanely destroyed, the force said in a statement.
Further forensic examinations will take place to determine the breed of dog and whether it is, or isn’t a legal breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991).
Officers remained at the scene this evening as they continue their investigation into the devastating incident.
Detective Inspector Lisa Milligan said: "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the child’s family at this devastating time.
"The little girl’s parents and wider family are absolutely devastated and our specialist Family Liaison Officers are providing them with support at this horrendous time.
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"Whilst we are in the very early stages of the investigation into this extremely tragic incident we can confirm that the dog was only bought by the family a week ago and officers are working to identify the previous owners of the dog concerned and establish its history.
"Our officers will remain on Bidston Avenue this evening and in the coming days to provide reassurance to the local community and we will work tirelessly to establish the full circumstances.
"If you were in the Bidston Avenue area this afternoon and witnessed anything, or have any information about the dog in question then please come forward speak to one of our officers.
"Our officers take the issue of dangerous dogs very seriously.
"Over the past years we have worked proactively with the five local authorities in Merseyside to ensure prohibited dogs are taken off the streets."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact police via the social media desk @MerPolCC or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook, with reference 22000196837.
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