First photo of seven-month-old baby killed by dog ​​as police say no crime committed

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A seven-month-old baby mauled to death by his family’s dog has been named by police, who say no crime has been committed.

Elle Doherty suffered serious head injuries after being bitten by the dog, registered as a Belgian Malinois, at her home in Coventry on Sunday.

Paramedics arrived within minutes, but despite their best efforts, she was pronounced dead. The dog was removed from the house and destroyed the same day.

On Friday, West Midlands Police released a statement confirming that detectives were convinced no crime had been committed.

A spokesman for the force said: “Following a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a child who tragically died after being bitten by a pet dog at a home in Coventry, detectives are now satisfied that no foul play has taken place criminal”.

They added: “Our thoughts remain with the family at this tragic time and they have now asked that they be allowed to grieve in private.”

Elle’s family have been notified by the force of the decision and a file is now being prepared for a coroner.

The Belgian Malinois is one of the four Belgian Shepherd breeds that are known for being energetic, intelligent and loyal to their owners.

Regarding the tragic incident in Shorncliffe Road, a spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “We were called to a medical emergency at a private address on Shorncliffe Road in Coventry at 3.01pm on Sunday.

“Two ambulances, a specialist paramedic, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance were sent to the scene. Upon arrival, the crews found a female patient, a child, who, following treatment, was taken to the hospital by ground ambulance.”

six months ago The Independent revealed how the number of fatal dog attacks has risen to a record high in the past two years, with 16 deaths recorded in 2023 compared to six in 2022.

There have been several deaths this year, including a 39-year-old grandmother killed by two dogs in Jaywick in Essex and a woman in her 50s who died after being mauled by two registered XL Bully dogs in Hornchurch.

The increase in dog attacks led to the previous government amending the Dangerous Dog Act to ban XL Bully dogs.

Only owners who register their XL Bully dogs can keep them, with restrictions including wearing a muzzle in public and insurance.

However, the law change has been criticized by some, including the RSPCA, who say the focus should be on property rather than breed.