The breed of the dog that mauled baby Bella-Rae Birch to death in their family home has been confirmed.
17-month-old Bella Rae was killed on March 21 after their new pet dog, an American Bully XL, attacked her.
According to reports, the family bought the dog just a week before the tragic incident.
Shocked neighbors described how they tried to save Bella-Rae after they heard her parents’ screams.
After the tragic incident, grieving relatives, friends, neighbors and people from around the globe have donated thousands to help pay for the child’s funeral.
“On the 21st of March we sadly lost our gorgeous blue-eyed baby girl, who was just one year of age, in a tragic sudden accident,” the girl’s mother wrote on a fundraising page.
“We are now in a position where we need to raise funds towards the most beautiful send-off,” the grieving mom continued.
“Every little will help, every little is appreciated. Thank you everyone.”
Merseyside Police released a statement on Wednesday confirming the dog wasn’t a banned breed.
“Merseyside Police are continuing enquiries into the tragic death of Bella-Rea Birch, as the family remain supported by specialist officers,” it read.
“Tests have confirmed that the dog involved was an American Bully XL, a legal breed not subject to any prohibitions under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.”
Bella-Ray’s family said in an emotional tribute through Merseyside Police: “As a family we would like to thank the community for their support.
“We would ask that we are now allowed some space and time to try and come to terms with the tragic loss of our much-loved Bella-Rae. She will be sadly missed but never forgotten.”
After the horrific incident, police closed parts of Bidston Avenue, St. Helens as they continued their investigation.
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