19-year-old woman dies after dog attack in UK, 2 arrested

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - A 19-year-old woman has died after being attacked by a dog in south Bristol in the UK that authorities believe to be an XL bully.

The attack occurred Wednesday evening in Cobhorn Drive in the Hartcliffe area, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

Police later confirmed that the dog has been euthanized.

However, officers noted that it was too early to definitively identify the breed.

A man and a woman, both in their 20s, have been arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control, resulting in injury leading to death, as well as possession of a prohibited breed of dog.

They remain in custody as part of the investigation.

In a press briefing Thursday, Inspector Terry Murphy from Avon and Somerset Police described the incident as "incredibly rare," acknowledging the immense challenges faced by officers at the scene.

"A full investigation is now well under way to establish the full circumstances of the events that led to her death," Murphy said.

While police have reassured the public that there is no ongoing risk to the community, they have pledged an increased police presence in the area in the coming days.