An aggressive XL Bully dog remains on the loose in Sheffield after armed police tried and failed to capture it. The incident occurred in the Walkley area of the city late Thursday evening.
South Yorkshire Police were called to Daniel Hill Street at around 10:04 PM after neighbors reported gunshots outside a house. Officers attended the scene and found that shots had been fired from outside a property, and the windows of a nearby vehicle had been smashed.
Upon entering the property, officers were confronted by an XL Bully dog that became aggressive. One officer fired a shot towards the animal, but the dog managed to flee the scene.
Linked Incidents and Arrests
Hours later, at around 3:11 AM on Friday, police were called to the Rivelin area following a road traffic collision involving a motorbike and a silver Golf. Shots were fired at a man during this incident as well.
Authorities believe the two incidents are linked. Both Daniel Hill Street and Rivelin Road have been cordoned off as investigations continue.
Police have arrested three people in connection with the incidents:
- A 37-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder
- A 39-year-old woman on suspicion of possession of a firearm
- A 36-year-old man (motorbike rider) on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle
The motorbike rider was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
Aggressive Dog Still at Large
During searches of the suspects’ properties, officers seized two dogs, including one XL Bully. A third dog, also an XL Bully, remains at large. The two captured dogs are being held in police kennels, while the third dog fled the scene in the Hillfoot area of Sheffield.
A spokesperson from South Yorkshire Police said:
“We’re asking for the public to be vigilant for an XL Bully that could be loose in our communities. If you see the dog, do not approach it. Please call 999 immediately.”
Police are urging anyone who may know the location of the dog to contact them. Authorities warned that the animal may display aggressive behavior and pose a threat to the public.
Public Safety and Ongoing Investigation
Chief Superintendent Jamie Henderson reassured residents:
“We are doing everything possible to locate the dog or find those who may be sheltering it. Please remain vigilant and report any sightings immediately.”
Local residents are advised not to approach the dog if spotted and to call 999 or 101 with any information, quoting incident number 948 of 3 April 2025.
As the investigation unfolds, police continue to carry out searches and patrols in the affected areas, and residents are urged to remain cautious.
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