Lucille Downer named as woman killed by two dogs on the loose in horror attack

Police have named an 85-year-old woman who died in a "sustained" attack by two dogs at her home in the West Midlands.

Lucille Downer died following a sustained attack in her rear garden in Boundary Avenue, Rowley Regis, on Good Friday afternoon.

West Midlands Police said it's understood two dogs managed to get through a fence hole in a neighbouring property.

The pensioner suffered multiple injuries in the “horrific” incident. She was sadly confirmed dead shortly afterwards.

Shortly after the arrival of police at the scene, the animals were tranquilised and taken to a nearby kennels where they are being tested to determine their breed.

Flowers outside the house where the pensioner died (PA)

On Saturday morning, floral tributes were left on the victim’s drive, with one displaying the message “RIP Nan”.

In a statement, her family said: "Lucille was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who spent her working years as a cook at Bromford House Care Home in West Bromwich.

"Lucille was born in Jamaica and emigrated to the UK in her early 20s. Since arriving in the UK, Rowley Regis has always been her home and her family will miss her dearly."

She sustained dog bite injuries and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

Speaking at a press conference outside West Bromwich Police Station on Saturday, Superintendent Phil Asquith said: “Neighbours called to report that a woman, 85 years of age, was under attack from dogs from a neighbouring property.

“Our officers attended, by which point the dogs had returned through a hole in the fence to the adjacent property and then, unfortunately, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, that lady died at the scene."

A 43-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being the person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control and death was caused.

He has been bailed to an appropriate address with conditions pending further enquiries.

West Midlands Police said its officer continue to investigate the circumstances and anyone with information, who has not already spoken to police, is urged to get in contact via Live Chat or 101. Quote log 2501 of 2/4/21.