An eight-month-old baby girl remains in critical condition after being attacked by an XL Bully-type dog, described by her family as “throwing her around like a rag doll,” at a property on Siskin Close.
The horrific incident occurred just after 2:30 pm on Wednesday. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and the infant, identified as Arabella Williams, was airlifted to a London hospital, where she remains in intensive care.
Dog Seized and Destroyed
The dog, named Hunter, was seized by police and later destroyed. Hunter had reportedly passed behavioral checks required by law and had shown no signs of aggression before the attack, according to the family.
Family’s Heartbreaking Account
Arabella’s aunt, Stephanie Coombs, shared harrowing details of the incident. She said:
Arabella was at her grandmother’s house. The dog suddenly switched, grabbing her by the top of her head like a claw machine and swinging her around like a rag doll. Her head was badly injured. It was touch and go last night. We are praying she’s going to be okay.”
Arabella’s mother reportedly suffered a broken finger while trying to pry the dog’s jaws open to save her daughter.
The family expressed anger over prior assessments of Hunter, claiming the dog had been returned to them after behavioral tests. Ms. Coombs added:
“Why did the police give the dog back after tests? How many families have to go through these tragedies? XL Bullies cannot be trusted—they should all be banned.”
Arrests Made
Kent Police confirmed that an 18-year-old man and a 76-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control. Both remain in custody as investigations continue.
Community in Shock
The attack has sent shockwaves through the quiet Hawkinge community. A builder working nearby said:
“It’s normally such a peaceful area. Seeing the emergency services and hearing about the baby is absolutely horrific.”
Calls for Stricter Measures
The incident has reignited debates about the safety of XL Bully dogs. Arabella’s family has called for a complete ban on the breed, which was added to the UK’s list of banned breeds earlier this year.
The dog had reportedly been kept as a companion for Arabella’s older brother, who has autism, after advice that a pet might support his condition.
Police and Community Response
A Kent Police spokesperson said:
“Officers will remain in the area to carry out enquiries and provide reassurance to the local community.”
Further updates on Arabella’s condition and the investigation are expected in the coming days.
