An arrest has been made after a man was mauled to death by an XL Bully dog at his Accrington home.

David Daintree, 53,  was killed after being attacked by a dog, which has since been destroyed, at around 9.30pm on Tuesday (August 20).

On Wednesday (August 28), a 33-year-old man, from Accrington, was arrested on suspicion of an offence under the Dangerous Dogs Act. He is suspected to be the owner, or person in charge, of a "dangerously out of control dog", that caused injury resulting in death.

He was also arrested on suspicion of an unrelated assault allegation and breach of bail. He has since been recalled to prison.

A police spokesperson said: “A 33-year-old man from Accrington was arrested yesterday (August 28) on suspicion of an offence under the Dangerous Dogs Act, namely being the owner/person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death.

“He was also arrested on suspicion of an unrelated section 18 assault allegation and breach of bail. He has since been recalled to prison.”

The dog was shot dead by police who assessed it was continuing to pose a significant threat of serious harm.

In a statement, his daughter Joanne said: “Dad was a man who had so much love to give he didn’t know what to do with it. Everyone that has ever met him have all said what a lovely man he was.

“Yes, like a lot of people, he went through some dark, hard times, but he was working hard to get his life back on track. He was struggling as he lost the love of his life in 2021 but he was starting to get his big, loving heart back.

“He was the kindest, most loving person you would ever meet. He would help anyone, including people he didn’t know, and he has done that on a number of occasions.

“He was a brilliant grandad, dad, and husband, and he will be missed by so many people.

“At least now you’re back with your Shazza and you can get back to drinking your Bacardi and Cokes together.

“Rest in peace Daddy Dave.”

A police investigation into David’s death is ongoing. It is hoped these enquiries will include how the dog came to be in Mr Daintree’s possession and its previous ownership.

From February 1 it has been illegal to own an XL Bully if it is not registered on the index of exempted dogs. 

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting log 1480 of August 20, 2024.