A family is left heartbroken after their 10-year-old daughter, Savannah Bentham, was tragically attacked by their XL Bully dog, Biggie, in East Heslerton, North Yorkshire. It was a day like any other when Savannah stayed at home during school holidays. Her mother, Tracey, stepped out briefly to fix a gas connection, leaving Savannah with their seemingly gentle pet. Upon returning, Tracey discovered the unthinkable – her daughter fatally injured, the dog nearby.
Police and paramedics rushed to assist, but unfortunately, Savannah lost her life due to neck injuries. Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Wilkinson explained that Biggie had never shown aggression and adhered to safety regulations, including neutering and wearing a muzzle in public. It appears there were no signs or incidents indicating Biggie could be dangerous within their home, which was shared with the family’s industrial unit.
Questions about what could have triggered such aggression remain unanswered. The inquest revealed no pathological changes in the dog suggesting a sudden fit of rage, and Savannah’s family had fulfilled all legal obligations. The incident leaves a small community in shock, raising fresh concerns around the breed.
Heartbroken, the family stated, “We can’t believe we have lost our wonderful girl who we love so much.” In the aftermath, the dog was put down, identified as an XL Bully with an exemption certificate following recent breed legislation. Our hearts go out to the family during this unimaginable time.