A 19-year-old woman has been mauled to death by a suspected XL Bully dog in a horrifying attack at a flat in Bristol.
The victim, Morgan Dorsett, from Shropshire, was attacked by the dog—believed to be called Prince—at a property on Cobhorn Drive on Thursday evening (February 27).
Emergency services were called at 7:19 pm, but despite their efforts, Morgan tragically died at the scene due to the severity of her injuries.
Two Arrested Following Attack
A man and woman in their 20s were arrested on suspicion of:
- Being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury resulting in death
- Possession of a prohibited breed of dog
They have since been released on bail as the investigation continues.
Family Pays Tribute
Morgan’s family has spoken out to thank the public for their support but has requested privacy during this difficult time.
A family member, Caelia Dorsett, paid tribute on Facebook, writing:
“My sweet angel. There are no words that describe this feeling. I am so grateful for all the memories we made together and having you as my ‘built-in bestie’. You truly were an amazing person inside and out.”
Witnesses Describe Terrifying Incident
Residents have described the chaotic and frightening scenes that unfolded during the attack.
A neighbour claimed the same dog had almost attacked her just three weeks ago. She described how it had been barking and growling aggressively, while its owner struggled to keep it under control.
Another horrified neighbour said she saw the dog owner covered in blood after the attack, sitting in the street and crying for hours.
She said:
“She somehow ended up down the road, and I could hear her crying all night. She had blood all over her.”
Another local resident, Gary Steadman, recalled hearing screaming and described the dog as “big, butch, and brown and white in colour.”
XL Bully Ban and Ongoing Investigations
Police confirmed that the dog was tranquilized and taken to a vet for examination, though it was later put down. Authorities suspect it was an XL Bully, a breed that was officially banned in the UK on February 1, 2024, due to an alarming rise in fatal attacks.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said:
“The family of a woman who tragically died after she was attacked by a dog in south Bristol have thanked the public for their support. Officers were told at the scene that the victim is 19-year-old Morgan Dorsett from Shropshire. Her family is being supported by a specially trained officer.”
Police are continuing investigations into the ownership of the dog and whether it was being kept illegally under new UK laws.
Rise in Fatal Dog Attacks in the UK
Morgan’s death is the latest in a series of fatal attacks involving XL Bully dogs. In recent years, several victims—including children and elderly individuals—have died from maulings by the powerful breed.
Authorities are urging dog owners to comply with the ban and ensure that restricted breeds are either muzzled in public or relinquished.
Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
