Caerphilly dog attack: Community reacts to 'terrible tragedy' after 10 year old dies

A community is in shock after a 10-year-old boy died in a dog attack near Caerphilly.

The incident took place at an address in Pentwyn, Penyrheol at around 3:55pm on Monday (November 8). Gwent Police were called to the scene where they confirmed a child had died. 

The force also said that the dog had been destroyed by firearms officers. 

Jack's mother, Emma Whitfield, paid an emotional tribute to her son on social media who she described as her "beautiful boy."

In a Facebook post she said: "We love you so much our sweet, sweet boy."

Jack was a pupil at Cwm Ifor Primary School, Caerphilly, where head teacher Gareth Rees paid tribute to him.

He said: “The whole school community has been rocked by the tragic events of the past 24 hours."

"Jack was a bright and caring pupil who was popular amongst his peers and the teaching staff at Cwm Ifor.

"Our thoughts are very much with his family at this difficult time and we now need time and space to heal together as a school community.

"Appropriate support is being made available for pupils and staff over the coming days as we come to terms with this devastating news."

Officers remained at the scene on Tuesday morning as the investigation continues.

Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough said: "It is possible that you may see ongoing police activity in Caerphilly as part of this work.

"You may have also seen an increased presence earlier today while officers were attending the incident, but please do not be alarmed.''

He added: ''If you have concerns or information then please do stop and talk with us."

Reacting to the news, a nearby resident said the dog had been a cause for concern.

"The dog has been a nuisance on the estate for a bit of a time. I took our son down to the local shop a few days ago, and he was down there then and he was lunging at my son.

"My son is three years old and I had to pick up my son just to move around the dog because of the size on him.

He was absolutely huge. He wasn't a pet - he was taking the owner for a walk, you know. He was massive."

Tributes are already being paid by many from the local community.

Caerphilly MS Hefin David described the incident as a "terrible tragedy."

He said: "My thoughts tonight are with the families involved. I know the close knit community will rally round and offer support."