Murder probe launched after man died following altercation and dog bite

A murder investigation has been launched after a 55-year-old man died following an altercation during which he was bitten by a dog in Wakefield.

At 1.36pm on Saturday (Aug 16), police responded to reports of an altercation in which a man had been bitten by a dog, in Wakefield.

The incident took place a short time earlier on the old trainline footpath off Blacker Lane.

A 55-year-old man was taken to hospital, but died shortly after 7pm that day.

A second 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control in a public place causing injury and is currently in custody.

A dog, which is understood to have been the one involved in this incident, has been seized by police.

Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Michael Cox, of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: “Sadly, a man has died and it is really important that we understand the circumstances of what has taken place.

“We know that two people, one named Sophie, stopped to assist the injured man and direct officers. We would urge these two women to come forward to help us with our ongoing enquiries into this tragic incident.

“The initial altercation has happened in an area used by walkers and we are urging anyone who has potentially seen or heard any part of the exchange between these two men to please make contact.

“Anyone with information can contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 13260465524.

“Information can also be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or online.”