Three-week-old baby killed by dog in Sunderland

A three-week-old baby died after being attacked by a dog in Sunderland in the early hours of the morning.

The child was bitten by the dog at around 4.15 am this morning, said Northumberland Police in a statement, and was taken to hospital, but died of his injuries.

The dog, described as a small terrier, was taken away from the home in Falkland Road by police, and is expected to be put down.

A 30-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death, and police said he is helping them with their inquiries.

Superintendent Gillian Mitchell said: "This is obviously a very tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family of the baby at such a difficult time.

"We are carrying out enquiries to establish the circumstances of the incident and will have extra officers in the area to allow this to be done.

"Officers will also be on patrol to offer reassurance to the local community who may be concerned."