Four hurt in attack by dog suspected to be XL bully
Police shot the animal that was found to be dangerously out of control in south London on Monday.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Four people have been hurt in an attack by a suspected XL bully dog in south London.
Armed police were called out after reports that the animal was dangerously out of control and attacking people in Home Road, Battersea, just after 10pm on Monday.
Four men were taken to hospital for treatment for injuries that were not life-threatening, and the dog was shot by police.
The Metropolitan Police said a 22-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman had been arrested on suspicion of being the owner/person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control.
Investigators are examining the dog to confirm its breed.
Local MP Marsha de Cordova said she was “deeply concerned” to hear the news of the attack.
From February 1, it became a criminal offence to own the XL bully breed in England and Wales without an exemption certificate.
Anyone who owns one of the dogs must have had the animal neutered, have it microchipped and keep it muzzled and on a lead in public, among other restrictions.
Ms de Cordova wrote on X: “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims injured in the attack, and for their full recovery.
“I am in contact with the police and their enquiries are ongoing.
“New laws have come into force that make it illegal to own an American XL Bully dog without an exemption certificate.
“It is vital that there is strong enforcement to make sure owners comply with the legislation.”
Anyone with information can call police on 101 or contact the force via X @MetCC quoting the reference CAD7620/19Mar.