Girl, 4, Mauled by XL Bully on River Footpath as Police Launch Urgent Appeal

Overview

Police have launched an urgent appeal after a four-year-old girl was bitten by an XL Bully dog in broad daylight on a popular river footpath.

The incident happened between 2pm and 3pm on Saturday, 19 July, along the River Irwell footpath in Kersal, Salford.

Fortunately, the child was not seriously injured, but officers say the attack could have had tragic consequences.

Appeal for Witnesses

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed they are investigating the attack and are urging witnesses to come forward.

A GMP Salford spokesperson said:

“We are appealing for information following an incident which saw an XL Bully bite a four-year-old child on the footpath of the River Irwell in Kersal between 2pm and 3pm on Saturday, 19 July 2025.

Thankfully no serious injuries were sustained, but this was a distressing incident, and we need to trace the dog and its owner.”

It is unclear at this stage what provoked the attack or if the dog’s owner was present.

How to Help

Anyone with information about the attack, the dog, or its owner is asked to call Greater Manchester Police on 101, quoting log number 2307-19/07/2025.

You can also report information online at gmp.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.