Baby dies after 'dog attack'

Officers were called to the home of the three-and-a-half-month-old in Ystrad Mynach, South Wales, shortly after midnight.

The baby was taken to the Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil where he was pronounced dead.

A spokeswoman for Gwent Police said: "Although the exact cause of death has yet to be established, and a post-mortem is taking place this afternoon, it is believed the fatal injuries were caused by the family dogs - a Staffordshire bull terrier and a Jack Russell.

"The dogs have been removed from the property and are currently being held at a local vet's."

The spokeswoman said the baby was being looked after by a "family member" at the time of the incident and they were taken to hospital for treatment for shock afterwards.

Gwent Police said they intended to speak to that person at some point regarding the incident and added that no arrests have been made.

Officers were carrying out house-to-house inquiries and the area was cordoned off for a forensic examination of the scene.

Chief Inspector Jim Baker said: "This is a tragic incident for the family and the community. Gwent Police Family Liaison Officers are currently supporting and assisting the family through this difficult time. The family wish to be left alone to grieve."

He added: "Although the exact circumstances of the baby's death are yet to be established, we would like to reiterate the advice given to dog owners that dogs should never be left unsupervised with young children at any time."