Staffordshire Bull Terrier seriously injuries nine-year-old boy seriously by mauling him

A nine-year-old boy was taken to hospital after he was attacked by a Staffordshire Bull Terrier while he was walking with his family in the park. 

The schoolboy was out with his family walking their dog at Langdon Hills Recreation Ground, Basildon, Essex, on Friday when another dog approached them shortly before 7.30pm. 

The black Staffordshire Bull Terrier type dog reportedly acted aggressively towards the family’s dog before attacking the boy when he tried to separate the animals. 

The dog, described as having long legs and no collar, was not accompanied by an. owner.  

Essex Police are appealing for anyone who saw the attack or a dog matching the description.  

A spokesman said: ‘We are appealing for anyone who was in the area around the time and witnessed the attack, saw a dog matching this description in the area, or knows where the dog may have come from.

‘We understand that this incident will cause concerns within the community, but officers are in the area searching for the dog and speaking to as many people as possible to find out if they have any information, which could help us with our investigation.’

‘If you have any information, please go to our website home page and select the ‘Live Chat’ button at the bottom right of the page. 

‘Here, between 7am-11pm, you will be able to provide information by speaking to one of our online operators to ensure your report is dealt with as quickly as possible.

‘Alternatively, you can submit an online report or call 101. Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers completely anonymously.’

‘Please reference 42/194565/20 when providing any information to ensure it gets to the investigating officer as quickly as possible.’