The family of a 4-year-old girl who was killed by her dog has described the incident as an “unthinkable tragedy”.
Alice Stones was attacked by the animal in the back garden of her home in Milton Keynes on Tuesday, with mum Louise overheard screaming “dead, dead”.
Paramedics who arrived on the scene called the police, who dispatched a sniper to shoot the dog dead.
A group described as relatives and friends of the girl are raising money for her mum’s funeral and living expenses.
In an update on Thursday, they thanked “everyone who has offered, shared or sent their condolences during this horrific time.”
They added: “Nothing went unnoticed and they are overwhelmed by the love the community has felt during this unimaginable tragedy.”
Residents reportedly described the animal as an American bulldog, a muscular breed known to become aggressive if not properly socialized or trained.
The family is said to have owned it for six to eight weeks before the incident, suggesting it was purchased as an adult or large puppy.
Neighbors told local media that they initially thought the commotion came from a loud television.
One said: “At first I thought the noise was coming from someone’s TV, but it just went on and on, like a loud screeching sound.
“I opened my window and all I could hear was screaming and sobbing. I didn’t know what was going on.
“My friend who lives closer to the house says she heard a woman yelling over and over ‘baby, she’s dead, she’s dead.’ It’s just awful.’
More than £3,000 has been raised so far through Gofundme.
No arrests have been made and the family are being supported by specialist officers.
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