19-year-old woman mauled to death by suspected XL Bully dog in Bristol
Tragic Attack Shakes Bristol
A 19-year-old woman, Morgan Dorsett from Shropshire, was horrifically mauled to death by a suspected XL Bully dog at a flat on Cobhorn Drive, Bristol, on Thursday evening, February 27.
Emergency services rushed to the scene at 7:19pm but could do nothing to save Morgan. She died there from severe injuries inflicted by the dog, believed to be named Prince.
Two Arrested and Released on Bail
Police arrested a man and woman in their 20s on suspicion of:
- Being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing death
- Possession of a prohibited breed of dog
Both have since been released on bail while investigations continue.
Family Mourns and Thanks Public
Morgan’s family has asked for privacy but thanked the public for their support. A family member, Caelia Dorsett, paid tribute on Facebook:
“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.”
Eyewitnesses Recall Terrifying Moments
Neighbours described chilling scenes during the attack. One claimed the dog had almost attacked her three weeks earlier, barking and growling fiercely while the owner struggled to control it.
Another neighbour said she saw the dog’s owner covered in blood, crying in the street for hours after the attack:
“She somehow ended up down the road, and I could hear her crying all night. She had blood all over her.”
Local resident Gary Steadman recalled hearing screams and described the dog as “big, butch, and brown and white in colour.”
XL Bully Breed Banned Amid Fatal Attack Spike
Police tranquilised the dog and took it for veterinary examination before it was put down. Authorities suspect the dog was an XL Bully, which became officially banned in the UK on February 1, 2024, amid a sharp rise in fatal attacks linked to the breed.
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 continue to investigate the dog’s ownership and whether it was being kept illegally under new laws.
Warning After Rise in Deadly Dog Attacks
Morgan’s death adds to a disturbing pattern of fatal attacks involving XL Bully dogs. Recent victims include children and elderly people, highlighting the dangerous power of the breed.
Authorities warn dog owners to follow the ban, either muzzling restricted breeds in public or surrendering them entirely.
Police urge anyone with information about this incident to come forward immediately.
