The family of a three-year-old boy who was killed by a dog in Greater Manchester have paid tribute to their “happy, kind and caring little boy”.
Daniel John Twigg was named by police on Tuesday as the victim of the dog attack in Milnrow, Rochdale, on Sunday afternoon.
Greater Manchester police (GMP) said Daniel was in the area with a number of dogs before being found with serious injuries.
A 48-year-old man was arrested under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 after handing himself in to police custody, the force said. He remains in custody for questioning.
Daniel’s family said in a statement: “Daniel was a happy, kind and caring little boy who was loved by all who knew him. He loved Paw Patrol and playing with his brother and sister, he also loved being around animals – especially his pony, Splash.
“He brought us many laughs and was a comical character. He was brave, intelligent and full of many characteristics. Daniel loved being with his whole family and will be missed by all. On behalf of our family, we ask people to respect our privacy.”
DCI Gina Brennand, of GMP’s major incident team, said: “I send my condolences to Daniel’s loved ones. This is a heartbreaking time for them, specially trained colleagues are supporting them.
“Though a man is in custody, our investigation is very much ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and ensure any criminal offences in relation to Sunday’s incident are identified and prosecutions sought.”
GMP has referred itself to the independent police standards watchdog after it emerged that officers had previous contact at the Carr Lane location where Daniel was killed. The force has confirmed it received a report that a 17-year-old girl was bitten by a dog on the same street on 9 April, five weeks before Sunday’s incident.
Signs at the farm entrance were clearly visible saying: “Dogs are loose. Do not leave your vehicle. Beep or call,” and gave a telephone number. Another sign read: “Warning. Beware of the dogs. They bite.”
Police said several dogs had been seized and one, a cane corso, had been humanely destroyed.
