Family grief at dog-bite baby death

The family of a week-old baby boy who died after being bitten by a dog have spoken of their devastation.

Relatives of Harry Harper, who died in hospital in Telford, Shropshire, said in a statement: "As a family we are absolutely devastated by Harry's death and have no words to describe the loss we have suffered.

"We have no wish to speak publicly about the events and would ask that we are left in peace to grieve and begin to deal with our loss."

Harry was pronounced dead after being taken to Telford's Princess Royal Hospital from a semi-detached house in Woodside Road, Ketley, Telford, on Tuesday morning.

Police have confirmed that "initial indications" suggest the infant died as a result of being bitten by a Jack Russell.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Jamieson, of West Mercia Police, said: "Our investigation is ongoing but it appears that the baby died as a result of a dog bite. The dog in question was a family pet - a Jack Russell - and this animal has been put down.

"A post-mortem will be taking place to establish the exact cause of this baby's death but at this stage it does appear to be a tragic accident."

Mr Jamieson added: "With an investigation ongoing, there is no further comment I can make on this matter apart from to say that all our thoughts are with the family of the baby at this extremely sad time."

Police and paramedics attended the property in Ketley shortly before 8am on Tuesday, but Harry died soon after being admitted to hospital.

His death has been reported to the local coroner and West Mercia Police are carrying out an investigation to establish the precise circumstances.