A 10-year-old girl who was mauled to death by her family's XL Bully dog has been identified as Savannah Bentham from Malton, North Yorkshire.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday afternoon at the family's home in the village of East Heslerton near the market town.
Despite efforts by medical professionals and a member of the public, Savannah sadly died at the scene. North Yorkshire Police were called to the incident by Yorkshire Ambulance Service at around 4.15pm.
The dog, which had reportedly been recently acquired by the family, was secured in a car by a family member before being transferred to kennels. Bentham had reportedly boasted to her pals: “I have got a new pet – an XL bully.”
The incident took place in East Heslerton
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Savannah's devastated family released a heartbreaking statement through North Yorkshire Police. They said: “We are utterly shocked and devastated by what happened to Savannah. We can't believe we have lost our wonderful girl who we love so much.”
The family expressed gratitude for the support they've received, stating: “We thank everyone for their support and kindness as we struggle to come to terms with our loss.”
They also requested privacy during this difficult time, adding: “We ask that our family's privacy is respected while we grieve for Savannah.”
Local residents described Savannah as a “lovely little lass” who was “really polite” and “very intelligent for her age.”
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An XL Bully was involved in an attack in Yorkshire (stock pic)
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North Yorkshire Police are conducting a detailed investigation into the incident. A spokesperson said: “One of the lines of enquiry relates to the behaviour of the dog to help explain, as far as possible, why it attacked the girl.”
The force noted that all indications suggest the attack was “out-of-character”, with Savannah and the dog having had “a close, loving relationship”.
Due to the circumstances, the dog will be destroyed. A post-mortem examination on Savannah took place on Sunday evening, with an inquest due to open in the coming days.
Police have urged the public not to speculate about the incident and to respect the family's privacy as they grieve.
The attack on Savannah is the latest in a series of fatal dog incidents in England and Wales. In February 2024, it became a criminal offence to own an XL Bully without a certificate.
The Office for National Statistics reported 30 deaths caused by dog attacks in 2023, more than double the total recorded in 2022.
XL Bully owners are now required to comply with strict conditions, including having their dogs neutered and keeping them muzzled and on a lead when outside.
At least seven deaths involving dog attacks have been reported in England and Wales over the past 10 months.
