Police shoot dog on Lynton Road in Southport after man attacked

Police can confirm officers are today, Tuesday 7 April, in the Birkdale area following reports a man had been bitten by a dog.

We were contacted at 10.45am following reports two dogs were loose on Lynton Road. The dogs are not believed to be a banned breed.

During the incident a man, in his 30s, sustained injuries to his stomach and arm. The man is being treated in hospital. He is not believed to be seriously injured.

It was also reported that a second man, believed to be in his 70s, was also approached aggressively by the dogs. The man did not suffer any injuries.

Armed police officers attended the scene, together with specialist dog officers. To prevent further harm, and stop the threat to the public, a decision was made to destroy one of the dogs at scene. A police firearm was discharged during the incident.

The second dog has been detained by dog patrols.

Officers remain at the scene carrying out further investigations and there is no threat to the wider public.

Anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC. You can also report information via our website:https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/or by calling 101 quoting incident reference 271 of 7 April.