A 10-year-old girl who died after being bitten by her family’s XL Bully has been named for the first time.
Little Savannah Bentham was killed in the incident in Malton, North Yorkshire, on Friday, police have said.
In a tribute issued through North Yorkshire Police, Savannah’s family 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.
“We thank everyone for their support and kindness as we struggle to come to terms with our loss.
“We ask that our family’s privacy is respected while we grieve for Savannah.”
North Yorkshire Police said due to the circumstances the dog will be destroyed.
The force said so far its investigation indicated the attack was “out-of-character” and that the girl and dog had “a close, loving relationship”.
A police spokesperson said a post-mortem examination on Savannah took place on Sunday evening and an inquest is due to open and adjourn in the coming days.
They said: “Despite the efforts of medical professionals and a member of the public who came to the family’s aid, the girl sadly died at the scene.
“Officers are conducting detailed enquiries covering all aspects of the incident.
“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.”
Officers are continuing to support the family, they added.
A local farmer told the Mail the dog was previously well-behaved. They said: “The dog is an XL bully. It has been certified and is well looked after. It’s a very big dog. I’ve seen it around the pub a few times, it doesn’t bother anyone or other dogs and is well-behaved.
“The mother ran out from the static caravan screaming ‘my baby’s dead.’ Some people from the caravan site went over to help. She was obviously really distraught. The police got here very fast, there were two helicopters, ambulances turned up and an armed response unit. Someone put the dog in a car apparently.”
Savannah had previously owned a bearded dragon lizard as a pet and was excited about caring for a dog.
One neighbour said yesterday: “It is just a horrible tragedy. She was such a sweet thing. I only know her because she would come in the park to play.
“Everybody is totally shocked and upset about it. The family have not lived here long. I have only met her. I have never met her mum and dad.”
