Two people have been arrested over the death of a teenager who was attacked by a suspected XL bully dog in Bristol.
Officers from Avon and Somerset Police were called to an incident inside a flat in Cobhorn Drive in the Hartcliffe area of the city at 7.19pm on February 26.
A spokesman said officers attended alongside the ambulance service but the 19-year-old woman died at the scene.
The teenager's family have been informed and are being supported by a specially trained officer.
The attack took place in Bristol (file pic)
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A man and a 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.
The pair, who have not been named by Avon and Somerset Police, remain in custody.
Neighbourhood Inspector Terry Murphy of Avon and Somerset Police has confirmed the dog has been put down. Speaking at a press conference in Bristol, he 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.
Initial reports suggested it may be an XL bully, but confirming the breed will be a part of the assessment process.
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The dog, said to be an XL Bully, has been seized (file pic)
PAInspector 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 under way 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."
The UK government website states it’s a criminal offence to own or possess an XL bully dog in England and Wales unless you have a Certificate of Exemption.
It is also illegal to sell an XL bully dog, abandon one, give the dog away, breed, or take the dog out in public without a lead or a muzzle.
Anyone who owns an XL bully without an exemption can face a criminal record and their pet may be taken and destroyed.
