XL Bully Dog Attack Kills 84-Year-Old Man in Horrific Incident
An 84-year-old man has died following a savage attack by a dangerous XL bully dog. The dog’s owner has been found guilty of owning an out-of-control dog that caused serious injury.
Victim Dies After Month Fighting for Life
John McColl suffered brutal injuries when the dog, named Toretto, lunged at him on 24 February 2025 in Warrington, Cheshire. Police had to shoot the dog 10 times to stop the deadly attack. McColl spent a harrowing month in intensive care but tragically succumbed to his wounds weeks later.
“He fought hard to survive as long as possible. I cannot begin to imagine the amount of pain and suffering he must have endured,” said Detective Inspector Simon Mills of Cheshire Police.
Owner Denies Responsibility – Prosecutor Hits Back
Sean Garner, 31, from Belle Vale, Liverpool, admitted owning two XL bully dogs—Toretto and Malibu—without exemption certificates. Malibu was also shot by police inside Garner’s home.
Garner claimed McColl had let Toretto loose from a locked shed on his property. Prosecutor David Birrell dismissed this as “ludicrous” and “absurd,” branding Garner a “selfish, reckless risk taker who couldn’t care less.” Garner was convicted at Liverpool Crown Court.
Neighbours Try to Save Man During Terrifying Attack
Neighbours sprang into action, armed with spirit levels and walking sticks, desperately trying to rescue McColl as the XL bully tore into him. Witnesses called the scene one of the most traumatic they had ever witnessed.
The dog, weighing over seven stone and found starving, was discovered guarding McColl like prey after the attack.
Owner Faces Prison After Heartbreaking Verdict
Garner showed no emotion as he was found guilty, while his family broke down in tears in court. The court heard he had recently moved into the property and lied to his landlord about the number and breed of dogs he owned.
He faces sentencing on 17 April and is already in custody, expecting a “substantial prison sentence.”
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family of Mr McColl,” said Detective Sergeant Emily Cole. “This verdict is a stark reminder of the dangers when dogs are not responsibly owned and controlled.”
