A dog attack victim’s mother has spoken out after ‘terrible speculation’ in the wake of the serious incident in Potterne near Devizes.
Armed police were deployed to the village after two dogs escaped a property and viciously mauled a 14-year-old boy on Thursday (9 April).
Officers managed to capture and seize the loose pets, while the victim was rushed to hospital for treatment. An investigation has been launched by Wiltshire Police.
Now his mother, who we are not naming to protect the boy’s identity in potential future criminal proceedings, has spoken out about the attack.
She said: ‘Just to make it clear to everyone speculating on the police [Facebook] pages, there were two dogs running loose last night in Potterne.
‘They attacked my son who is 14, the dogs were NOT provoked or baited in any way.
‘We are both traumatised by this and he is covered in bite marks and scratches. I did my best to protect him while trying to fend off the dog.
‘Armed response was sent and paramedics, and he was sent to hospital.
‘Speculation is terrible, these people do not know the truth or what actually happened. Get your facts right!’
In a statement on Friday (10 April), Devizes inspector Simon Garrett said: “We appreciate how horrendous and distressing this incident must have been for the victim, his family and those who witnessed it and we are taking it very seriously.
“The two dogs involved have been seized and taken to secure kennels and their owner has been identified.
“Enquiries are ongoing to understand the full circumstances of the incident.
“We understand the significant concern it will have caused and additional officers will be in the area for reassurance.
“If you have any information, questions or concerns then please don’t hesitate to speak with us.”
