Pitbull

A toddler who was mauled to death in her own home was killed by an American Bully XL dog, police have confirmed.

Bella-Rae Birch, who was 17 months old, in St Helens at about 15:50 GMT on Monday.

Merseyside Police said The Toddler was attacked only a week After Her family had bought The Dog .

Tests have confirmed The Dog was a legal breed and not subject to any prohibitions under The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, The Force added.

Currently there are in the UK - Pitbull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro .

The Attack happened at The Family 's home in Bidston Avenue in the Blackbrook area of St Helens .

One neighbour said The Child 's parents were " hysterical".

" We pulled up from school and heard screaming. I just ran over to try to help and started CPR until the paramedics took over, " She Said .

" I didn't see The Dog , I was just focusing on helping The Baby . "

Detectives said The Force was continuing their inquiries into The Toddler 's death and urged anyone with information to come forward.

In a statement following her death, Bella-Rae's family said they would " like to thank the community for their support".

" We would ask that We Are now allowed some space and time to try and come to terms with the tragic loss of our much-loved Bella-Rae, " they added.

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