SOME DOGS ARE NOT TO BE KEPT AS PETS

DOGS2228 from ITV News on Vimeo.

A teenage girl thought to have been attacked by “aggressive and out of control dogs” has been named by sources as Jade Anderson.

The 14-year-old’s body was found at a house in Chaucer Grove, Atherton, Greater Manchester, shortly after 2pm following reports she was unconscious and a number of dogs were out of control.

North of England Correspondent Damon Green reports from the scene:

Armed police officers destroyed four of the animals, thought to be two bull mastiffs and two Staffordshire bull terriers, while a fifth was contained, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

Superintendent Mark Kenny said the teenager’s injuries were “consistent with her having been attacked by dogs”.

Read: Worst UK dog attacks in recent years
Neighbour Joshua Thomas told ITV News that Jade returned to the property with a pie and the “dogs went for it”, attacking the teenager.

First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family of the girl who has tragically lost her life. Specialist officers are offering them every support.

While our inquiries to find out what happened are ongoing, this girl’s injuries are consistent with her having been attacked by dogs.

I understand this is an extremely distressing incident for all concerned, including the community, and we will work hard to establish the full circumstances that lead to this tragedy.

There will be a significant police presence in the area, which will remain this evening. We will be there to carry out an investigation and address any concerns residents may have.

A ‘beware of the dog’ sign outside the house in Chaucer Grove, Atherton where the body of a 14-year old girl was found. Credit: PA Wire
Police said the girl was believed to have been visiting the address and nobody else was present.

Neighbour Kenneth Lindsay said he left his house when he “heard gun shots” but police “shouted” at him to stay inside.

A post mortem examination to establish how Jade died is expected to take place tonight.

The dogs’ remains will also be examined as part of the investigation, police said.