Inquest opened for man killed by up to four dogs, including two XL bullies

Nicholas Glass, 33, was described as ‘kind-hearted, caring and compassionate’ by his family after his death on August 21.

Nicholas Glass was found dead in the garden of a relative’s property on Hereford Close in Rednal in the early hours of August 21 (West Midlands Police/PA) (PA Media)

A man who was found dead in the garden of a relative’s home after an attack by up to four dogs, two of which were XL bullies, died of blunt force trauma from bites, an inquest has heard.

The body of Nicholas Glass, 33, was discovered outside a property in Hereford Close in Rednal, Birmingham, in the early hours of August 21.

West Midlands Police believe up to four dogs were present around the time he was attacked, with two of the dogs seized by police at the time and the remaining pair found two days later.

Tests concluded that two of the dogs were of the XL bully banned breed and neither had a certificate of exemption.

In Nicholas we’ve lost a loving son, brother and uncle who was adored by all of his family and friends... We are devastated at his loss and we all miss him desperately

Family statement

An inquest was opened into the death of Mr Glass, from Chalybeate Close in Rubery, at Birmingham and Solihull Coroner’s Court on Monday morning.

Coroner James Bennett said Mr Glass was identified by police at the scene.

The inquest, which will look at Mr Glass’s medical cause of death and the events leading up to his death, was adjourned until January 13 2025 so the “relevant evidence can be obtained”, Mr Bennett said.

He added: “I would like to take this opportunity to express my condolences to the family of Mr Glass.”

In a tribute released through police last month, Mr Glass’s family said: “In Nicholas we’ve lost a loving son, brother and uncle who was adored by all of his family and friends.

“He was kind-hearted, caring and compassionate and he’d do anything for anyone. We are devastated at his loss and we all miss him desperately.”