Boy mauled by Rottweiler on Southend seafront

A boy has received serious arm and back injuries after being mauled by a Rottweiler on Southend seafront.

The seven-year-old boy, who is from Westcliff, was paddling in the sea on Eastern Esplanade in the area opposite the turning for Chelsea Avenue at around 4.15pm on Friday, August 5, 2011.

A man came walking along the beach with two Rottweiler dogs, who both ran into the water where the boy was playing. 

One of the dogs grabbed hold of the boy across his left shoulder and had its mouth across the boy’s chest, back and arm. The boy was forced under the water which was about two feet deep.

Pc Rob Kirk, the investigating officer, picks up the story: "The boy’s grandmother had to physically pull the dog from the boy for fear it was going to drown the child or continue to bite him to death.  It must have been a terrifying ordeal for all concerned.”

After the grandmother pulled the dog away, both dogs and their owner ran back onto the promenade, then over the road and up Chelsea Avenue towards Southchurch Park.

The dog walker is described as a black man in his 30s, about 6ft 4ins tall and of slim build with short black hair.  He was wearing a blue top and jeans.  Early enquiries suggest he lives in Southend.

The boy sustained around 20 puncture wounds to his torso and arms, including a 2 inch cut to his forearm.  He has since had two lots of surgery and he currently remains at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford receiving treatment to his wounds.

Pc Kirk continued: "Someone out there must know someone fitting this description who walks two Rottweiler dogs. 

"He allowed this dog to be dangerously out of control in a public place and a young lad has been left with horrific injuries, both physical and emotional I am sure. 

"Please tell me who this dog walker is so we can take appropriate action to ensure it does not happen again.”

Pc Kirk can be contacted at Southend police station on 0300 3334444.