Update after XL Bully mauls girl, 10, to death as vicious attack deemed 'out of character'

Savannah Bentham’s "shocked" family, who are from the Malton area of North Yorkshire, have issued a heartbreaking statement through the police following the devastating dog attack

The 10-year-old killed by her family’s pet dog has been identified as a "wonderful girl" called Savannah Bentham.

Savannah’s "shocked" family, who are from the Malton area of North Yorkshire, have issued a heartbreaking statement through the police. They 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 were called to the incident by Yorkshire Ambulance Service at around 4.15pm on Friday. A force statement said Savannah suffered serious injuries after being bitten by the dog. The statement read: "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. All indications so far suggest it was out-of-character, with Savannah and the dog having a close, loving relationship.

"Due to the circumstances of the incident, the dog will be destroyed." A post-mortem examination on Savannah took place on Sunday and an inquest is due to open and adjourn in the coming days, they said. They said their officers are continuing to support the family while enquiries continue.

"We again urge people not to speculate about the incident and to respect the family’s wish for privacy to grieve in peace."