Wakefield dog bite victim dies and police open murder inquiry

A murder inquiry has begun after the death of a man who was bitten by a dog on a footpath in West Yorkshire.

The 55-year-old was injured in an altercation on a disused railway line off Blacker Lane in Calder Grove, Wakefield, at about 13:30 BST on Saturday. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition but died just after 19:00.

West Yorkshire Police has appealed for two people, one of whom is called Sophie, who stopped to help the injured man to come forward.

A force spokesperson said a 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and of being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control in a public place, causing injury. He remains in custody.

The dog believed to have been involved in the incident has been seized by officers.

Det Ch Insp Michael Cox 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.”

He added: “We would urge these two people to come forward to help us with our ongoing inquiries into this tragic incident.

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