Three individuals have been arrested following a dog attack on Marshall Avenue that left four people injured, including a young child.
The incident occurred around 2.10pm on Sunday, May 10, involving a Belgian Malinois. It is believed the dog had come off its lead before biting three adults and a four-year-old child.
All four victims were taken to the hospital for treatment. Authorities have confirmed that their injuries are not life-threatening.
Police Action and Arrests
Following the attack, police seized the dog as part of an ongoing investigation. Three people—a 15-year-old boy, a 34-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman—were arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury.
The suspects are currently being questioned in custody.
T/Inspector Mike Dalton, from Middlesbrough response, stated: “Once the report was received, officers swiftly attended to the area and the dog was located and seized.”
He added, “As part of the investigation, three people have been arrested and will be questioned while officers establish what took place.”
Community Impact and Significance
The incident underscores the serious risks associated with dogs that are not securely controlled in public spaces. The involvement of a child and multiple adults highlights the potential for significant community harm when animals are believed to have come off their leads.
The swift seizure of the animal and the arrest of three different individuals suggest a focused police effort to establish exactly who was responsible for the dog’s control at the time of the attack.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Police are now working to reconstruct the events leading up to the bites. A possible next step involves the analysis of witness accounts and digital evidence to determine how the dog became unsecured.
T/Inspector Dalton has issued an appeal to the public, stating: “I want to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who has information or footage in the run to and during the bite to please get in touch by calling 101 or visiting the website quoting reference number 088568.”
He further encouraged residents with concerns to speak with an officer.
Information may also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
