Man dies after attack by 'dangerously out of control' dog in Leigh

A man has died after being attacked by a "dangerously out of control" dog in Leigh.

Jonathan Hogg, 37, was found by officers on Westleigh Lane in the Greater Manchester town with serious injuries shortly after 9.10pm on Thursday.

He was taken to hospital where he died in the early hours of Friday.

In a statement released by Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Mr Hogg's family said: "Jonathan was a well-loved, sensitive, and kind person who will never know how loved and appreciated he was by everyone who knew him."

His brother Ian Hogg had earlier posted on Facebook: "Can't believe I am writing this but rest easy kid.

"Heartbroken isn't the word. Didn't want to leave you this morning.

"Love you brother."

Keith Gannon, a friend of Mr Hogg, wrote in a tribute: "So saddened to hear this Ian, had some great funny times over the years with (Mr Hogg).

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family RIP Hoggy."

Another friend, Gereth Thornley, wrote: "Sorry for your loss mate, gonna miss his unexpected visits, rest easy Johnathan (sic), see you on the flip side bruva."

GMP said armed officers were deployed to try to control the dog and used "every available tactic to subdue" the animal before it was destroyed because it posed a "significant risk" to the public.

A 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury resulting in death.

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Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst said: "Firstly, I would like to extend my condolences to the loved ones of the victim of this attack. Our officers and our partners are currently supporting the victim's loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

"We recognise this incident will rightly cause concern within the local area and we would like to reassure the public that we explored every possible avenue to protect the local community and the animal involved.

"We would urge members of the public to please come forward if they have any information in regard to this incident, any information you may have may be a huge help to our investigation."

The death follows other high-profile dog attacks in the UK this year.

A dog attack in Edinburgh earlier this month left a man with "life-changing" facial injuries.

While last month, a five-month-old baby was taken to hospital following a dog attack in Penyrheol, Caerphilly.