Police face probe over dog they handed back to owner days before it killed neighbour

David Ellam, 52, from Huddersfield, was killed when his neighbour's dog attacked him in his doorway. Picture: Ross Parry Agency

West Yorkshire Police had already announced they were referring the death of David Ellam to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Now the commission has confirmed it will launch an investigation.

Mr Ellam was set upon while he was walking with his Yorkshire terrier close to his home in Huddersfield on Monday. He died later in hospital.

The bottom-floor flat in the semi-detached house on the left was the victim's home. Picture: Ross Parry Agency

A police spokesman said that in June a dog warden visited the address where the suspect animal was being kept following concerns from members of the public.

A referral was made to police amid fears the dog may be a dangerous breed, he said.

IPCC commissioner Derrick Campbell said: “The death of Mr Ellam was a tragic incident and my sympathies go to his family.

“Our independent investigation will look closely at police actions prior to Mr Ellam’s death, including the decision-making around the removal, testing and return of the dog.

“A criminal investigation into Mr Ellam’s death is being carried out by West Yorkshire Police.”