Tragic Death of Toddler in Rochdale Farm Dog Attack
Three-Year-Old Fatally Mauled by Family’s Cane Corso
Heartbreak hit a Rochdale farm after three-year-old Daniel Twigg was brutally attacked by a Cane Corso dog on May 15, 2022. Daniel suffered severe head and neck injuries in the savage attack at Carr Farm and died later that day at Manchester Children’s Hospital despite emergency efforts.
Dogs Kept in Poor Conditions on New Family Farm
The dog, Sid, was one of 11 dogs housed in cramped, neglected conditions. The Twigg family had only moved into the property two months before the tragedy. Daniel was left unsupervised in a pen with the dogs when the fatal attack occurred.
Parents Jailed for Letting Dangerous Dog Loose
Daniel’s parents, Mark Twigg, 43, and Joanne Bedford, 37, avoided manslaughter charges but were found guilty of letting a dog dangerously out of control and causing injury. Bedford was sentenced to three and a half years in jail, while Twigg got two years and eight months behind bars.
Both face a 15-year ban on owning dogs.
Judge Mr Justice Kerr said: “No sentence can undo the damage done, nor ease the grief of the bereaved. You have both lost your beloved son. The wrongdoing that led to Daniel’s death must be punished, and it is my mournful duty to see it done.”
Authorities Urge Vigilance on Dog Safety
Detective Sergeant Mark Evans called the incident “deeply tragic and traumatic,” remembering Daniel as a bright and curious toddler unaware of potential dangers.
Dog Legislation Officer Stephen Greenough warned: “Dogs should never be left unattended with children, particularly under sixteen. This heartbreaking case shows the devastating consequences when owners fail.”
He emphasised the need for responsible dog ownership and warned the law will crack down on negligence. The public is urged to report dangerous dogs to prevent future tragedies.
Family Pay Tribute to Their “Happy, Loving Son”
Daniel’s family described him as a “happy, kind and caring little boy loved by all who knew him.”
