A 55-year-old man has died after being bitten by a dog on a public footpath in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. The dog's owner was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder.
West Yorkshire Police reported that the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon following an altercation in the Calder Grove area. At approximately 1:30 p.m., a man was bitten by a dog shortly after the altercation on the old train line footpath, off Blacker Lane. The victim was transported to a hospital in critical condition and passed away shortly after 7 p.m. on Saturday.
Authorities have arrested a 55-year-old man on suspicion of murder and for owning a dog that was dangerously out of control in a public place and caused injury. The suspect is currently in custody. The dog believed to be involved in the incident has been seized by police.
Detective Chief Inspector Michael Cox of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team appealed for witnesses, particularly two individuals, one identified as Sophie, who stopped to assist the injured man. He emphasized the importance of understanding the circumstances and urged anyone who may have witnessed any part of the exchange between the two men to come forward.
Police are requesting that anyone with information contact them at 101, quoting crime reference 13260465524, or provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.