Residents shocked after child dies after Dormanstown dog attack

Neighbours on Hardale Drive in Dormanstown described a standoff between ten armed officers and the dog before it was destroyed after 1.30pm on Thursday (April 9).

A second dog was taken from a house by police.

Residents said they were in “utter shock” and in a state of disbelief.

Police on Hardale Drive in Dormanstown (Image: OLIVIA HOWLETT)

One resident, who lives on the street with his daughter and grandchildren said: “it’s absolutely heartbreaking, I cannot believe it.

“You never expect anything so horrific to happen in your area.

“Police swarmed the street around 1.30pm I think and there was a proper standoff with the dogs and then one was shot dead. I cannot imagine what that family are going through.

“It’s really scary.”

Crime scene investigators at the scene on Thursday evening (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

A man, who lives on a road nearby added: “It’s the school holidays and kids were everywhere. Initially I didn’t know what had happened but to now hear some details I can’t believe it, it sounds horrendous.”

CSI vans remained parked up outside a house on the street around 8.30pm.

Another woman on the street said: “I am in utter shock it was just surreal all of it. I hope everyone involved is okay, it is such a tragic incident.”

Another added: “There were around ten armed police men and so many cars and vans. I think everyone just went straight inside because the dogs had got out and were running all over the police having a pro

per stand off. I feel physically sick about it all.”

Cleveland Police District Commander, for Redcar and Cleveland, Emily Harrison said: “Understandably this is a distressing and tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the child’s family.

“There is a scene in place at the address while an investigation into the child’s death begins.

“I would encourage anyone who has concerns or information to please speak to an officer.”

Anyone who has concerns or information is encouraged to speak to an officer. If you have information, please call 101 or visit our website quoting reference number 066204.