Overview
- The 13-week-old was attacked at a Hardale Grove home on April 9, 2026, and was pronounced dead at James Cook University Hospital.
- An inquest opened on Tuesday at Teesside Coroner's Court and was adjourned after a provisional post-mortem found a head injury.
- Armed officers shot one dog and a second was later destroyed after specialists judged both were not prohibited types under the law.
- Police noted neighbors had described the animals as pocket bullies, but they have not confirmed the breed and say the dogs were legal to own.
- Three people were arrested in two phases on April 9 and April 13 and later released on conditional bail, while the family set a May 1 funeral in Redcar and asked mourners to wear no dark clothing and donate to the RVI Baby Unit.