Schoolgirl, 10, named after XL Bully mauled her to death in 'out of character' attack

Get the latest Daily Record breaking news on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info

Join us on WhatsApp

A schoolgirl mauled to death by her family's pet dog has been named as Savannah Bentham. The 10-year-old has been hailed as a "wonderful girl" by loved ones. Police confirmed yesterday that the youngster had lost her life following the shocking attack. And today officers confirmed the child's identity.

A heartbreaking statement was released through police by her family. It read: "We are utterly shocked and devastated by what happened to Savannah. We can’t believe we have lost our wonderful girl who we love so much. We thank everyone for their support and kindness as we struggle to come to terms with our loss.

Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!

Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.

You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.

No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.

All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!

If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.

To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.

If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

"We ask that our family’s privacy is respected while we grieve for Savannah." The Mirror reports North Yorkshire Police is now investigating the incident, which took place in Malton, Yorkshire. After inflicting "serious injuries" on Savannah, the dog was transferred to a Kennel after being trapped in a car by a family member.

North Yorkshire Police were called to the incident by Yorkshire Ambulance Service. A force statement said Savannah suffered serious injuries after being bitten by the dog. The statement read: "Despite the efforts of medical professionals and a member of the public who came to the family’s aid, the girl sadly died at the scene.

"Officers are conducting detailed enquiries covering all aspects of the incident. One of the lines of enquiry relates to the behaviour of the dog to help explain, as far as possible, why it attacked the girl. All indications so far suggest it was out-of-character, with Savannah and the dog having a close, loving relationship. Due to the circumstances of the incident, the dog will be destroyed."

A post-mortem examination on Savannah took place on Sunday and an inquest is due to open and adjourn in the coming days, they said. They said their officers are continuing to support the family while enquiries continue. They added: "We again urge people not to speculate about the incident and to respect the family’s wish for privacy to grieve in peace."

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.

Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.