A 55-year-old man died after being bitten by a dog during an altercation on a public footpath in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, on Saturday, prompting police to arrest the dog’s owner on suspicion of murder.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed the man was attacked near the old train line footpath off Blacker Lane in the Calder Grove area at approximately 1:30 PM. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition and died shortly after 7:00 PM the same day.
A 55-year-old man, identified as the dog’s owner, was arrested on suspicion of murder and owning a dangerously out-of-control dog in a public place, causing injury. He remains in police custody. The dog involved in the incident has been seized as evidence.
Detective Chief Inspector Michael Cox, leading the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, stated: “Sadly, a man has died and it is really important that we understand the circumstances of what has taken place.” Cox added that two witnesses, one named Sophie, stopped to assist the injured man and direct officers to the scene. Police have urged these individuals to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or has information about the incident to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team or call 101, quoting crime reference 13260465524.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to clarify the events leading to the fatal attack.