Man arrested after 'American pit bulls' maul woman to death in her home

A man has been arrested after his two 'American pit bulls' mauled a woman to death.

Emma Bennett, 27, died yesterday evening in hospital after suffering serious bite injuries at her home in Dawlish Avenue, Leeds, on Monday afternoon.

The man, 33, was arrested this morning on suspicion of offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Detective Superintendent Simon Beldon, who was leading the investigation, said: "Early indications are that the two dogs seized from the address are American pit bull terriers, although tests are still ongoing to establish their exact make-up.

"Dogs of this type are subject to restrictions under the Dangerous Dogs Act and our enquiries are focused on this aspect.

"We are continuing to appeal for anyone with information about the incident or the dogs involved in it to contact the investigation team."

Ms Bennett's neighbour, Chris Roebuck, said he was not home when the incident occurred.

"I've actually found out more in the last 10 minutes than I have about it from the other day so I'm quite shocked that somebody's actually died," he said.

"I don't really know her (Ms Bennett), I just say 'hello' to her and that's it."

Mr Roebuck said he was surprised the dogs, which also live in the street, were vicious enough to cause his neighbour's death.

"I've seen one of them, which I have stroked and it seemed soft, really soft," he said.

"It wanted to lick you at all times - that's the big dog - but I never saw the other dog."

Mr Roebuck said the dogs "seemed calm" and only ever barked occasionally.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police on 101.

PA