Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Young man killed by his own dog as he suffered an epileptic seizure

Trigger was then taken to a local vet to be put down.

PastedImage-36022

A YOUNG MAN who was killed by his own dog yesterday was suffering an epileptic seizure when he was attacked, police have confirmed.

Liam Hewitson, a 22 year old from Preston, sustained injuries to his face and neck on New Year’s Day.

Emergency services were called to the scene at his home but paramedics were unable to save him. He died at the scene after 3.45pm.

Man killed by dog in Preston Floral tributes are left at the scene in Dundonald Street in Preston, Lancashire, after 22-year old Liam Hewitson, was killed by his own dog. PA Wire / PA Images PA Wire / PA Images / PA Images

In an update today, Lancashire Police confirmed Liam was having an epileptic fit at the time.

The dog – a pitbull cross called Trigger – was taken to a local vet’s office and put down. Liam had owned him since he was born about five or six years old.

“Liam was a happy lad who was always smiling and had lots of friends,” his family said in a statement today.

He had a beautiful personality and he will be missed by his dad Phil, girlfriend Jess and sisters Melissa and Aleisha and brother Cordell.

Police added: “The family have asked to be given some privacy as they have been through a truly horrific experience and they are all still very much in shock.”

Man killed by dog in Preston Lauren Brown Lauren Brown

The incident is being treated as a tragic accident and officers noted that the dog was not a banned breed. “There is no criminal investigation,” they confirmed. “As such a file will be passed to the coroner in due course.”

Epilepsy: ‘There is always the chance of not waking up after a seizure’

More: Man suffering from “severe hypothermia” airlifted from north Dublin beach

Read: Saudi Arabia has executed 47 men, including a prominent cleric, for terror offences

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
57 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds