Man dies after being mauled by seized dog in Huddersfield

A man has died after being mauled by a dog which had previously been seized and then released in an incident in Huddersfield.

David Ellam, who was 52, was attacked in the Sheepridge area of the town yesterday morning.

He was treated by paramedics and taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary where he died.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Swift of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team who is leading the investigation, said: "Clearly our thoughts go out to the family at this tragic time."

The dog has been kept for tests by police.　

However, West Yorkshire Police have revealed that a dog warden visited the property where the dog lives in June following complaints from members of the public about the dog. A referral to police was made following concerns the dog may be a dangerous breed.　

As a result, the same dog was seized by police and following a screening, it was determined the animal was not a banned breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act. The dog was returned to its owner on August 8.　

Following yesterday's incident, A 29-year-old man, who is the owner of the dog has been arrested in connection with the incident and has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.　

The incident has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.