A quiet Welsh village has been left reeling after a family tragedy that claimed the life of a nine-month-old baby boy. The infant was fatally attacked by the family's own pet dog, identified as an XL Bully, at their home in Rogiet, Monmouthshire.
The horrific incident occurred on Monday afternoon, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Despite paramedics' desperate efforts to save the child, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Gwent Police have confirmed they are not treating the death as suspicious and are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. The force has stated that the dog involved was an XL Bully breed - the same type recently added to the UK's banned dogs list.
Community in Mourning
Neighbours and local residents in the small village near the English border have expressed their shock and devastation. The close-knit community has come together to support the grieving family during what authorities have described as an "extremely tragic incident."
One neighbour, speaking anonymously, described the family as "lovely people" who were devoted to their children and pets. The sudden nature of the tragedy has left the entire community struggling to comprehend how such a horrific event could occur within a family home.
XL Bully Breed Under Scrutiny
This heartbreaking incident comes at a time when the XL Bully breed is already at the centre of national debate. The dogs were added to the list of banned breeds in England and Wales earlier this year following a series of serious attacks.
The government's decision to outlaw the breed came after mounting pressure from campaigners and victims' families who argued that XL Bullies posed a significant danger to public safety. Owners of existing XL Bully dogs were given until February 2024 to register their pets and comply with strict new requirements, including mandatory neutering, microchipping and insurance.
Ongoing Investigation
Police remain at the scene conducting enquiries while the family receives specialist support. Detective Superintendent Nick Wilkie confirmed that officers are working to establish the full circumstances leading up to the attack.
"This is a very upsetting and tragic incident and we are supporting the family as they come to terms with their devastating loss," he stated. The investigation will likely examine the dog's history, the environment in which it was kept, and whether all legal requirements regarding the banned breed had been met.
As the community of Rogiet mourns, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding dangerous dog legislation and the importance of responsible pet ownership in the UK.
