Family Devastated After 10-Year-Old Savannah Killed by Dog

A tragic incident unfolded on November 1, 2024, when a ten-year-old girl, Savannah Bentham, was fatally attacked by her family’s XL bully dog, Biggie, at their home in East Heslerton, North Yorkshire. The harrowing events were revealed during an inquest held in Northallerton, where Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Wilkinson provided details about the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Savannah was alone in the family caravan when the attack occurred. Her mother, Tracey Bentham, had briefly left to seek assistance from a relative regarding a faulty gas canister. Upon returning, she discovered the horrific scene; her daughter was found in a foetal position with the dog present and covered in blood. Detective Wilkinson recounted, “Savannah was in a foetal position in the address and the dog was present and covered in blood.”

Despite immediate attempts to resuscitate Savannah, including efforts from nearby business patrons and paramedics, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The investigation revealed that Savannah had sustained severe injuries to her neck, leading to her untimely death.

Investigation Reveals Dog’s Background

During the inquest, it was confirmed that there had been no prior incidents of aggression involving Biggie. The family complied with all requirements regarding the dog’s exemption certificate under the recent dangerous dogs legislation. Detective Wilkinson noted that the dog was registered with a veterinarian, was appropriately chipped and neutered, and wore a muzzle in public spaces. However, there was no mandate for the dog to wear a muzzle within the family home.

At the time of the incident, Savannah’s father, Bradley Bentham, was at work, leaving Savannah at home with her mother during the school holidays. Detective Wilkinson explained that Savannah was watching television with Biggie when her mother left the caravan to seek help. He stated, “At the time, Savannah was at home with Biggie, watching TV.”

The family described Biggie as a “lazy dog,” and there had been no previous cause for concern regarding his behavior. In response to inquiries about the dog’s history, Detective Wilkinson asserted, “It was entirely normal in terms of the dog being in the family home. There’s never been any incident in relation to the dog in the family home as far as the inquiry determined.”

Coroner’s Conclusion and Family Statement

After an hour-long hearing, Senior Coroner Jon Heath recorded a narrative conclusion, stating that Savannah died “as a consequence of injuries inflicted on her by the family dog.” Following the incident, North Yorkshire Police confirmed that the dog was identified as an XL bully and was subsequently euthanized by a veterinarian. The police also noted that Biggie had a certificate of exemption under the legislation banning the breed.

In a statement released after the incident, Savannah’s family expressed their profound grief, saying, “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.” The community remains in mourning as they come to terms with the tragic loss of a young life.