The family of a teenager killed by an XL bully-type dog have spoken of their heartbreak.
Morgan Dorsett, 19, suffered fatal injuries when she was attacked at a semi-detached terraced property in south Bristol on Wednesday.
The pet, believed to have been an 8st XL bully, was seized and sedated before being euthanised, police said. The force added that work is continuing to identify the breed.
Her stepfather Matthew Travis wrote on social media: “Words can’t describe how much our hearts are breaking at the moment.
“The loveable rogue who knew what she wants and also how to get it. That cheeky smile would win me over every bloody time even to the point you would have me making you pasta at 2am.
“You could do no wrong in my eyes and will always be my favourite – as you would enjoy telling everyone. In our hearts you will hold a place no one else will ever fill.”
Emma Dorsett posted a tribute to Morgan, whom she described as her “beautiful sister”, on Facebook: “You will forever and always be in my heart.
“The memories we had together will always be with me and I will never forget the impact you had on my life. I love you forever and always, my beautiful sister.”
Caelia Dorsett posted a montage of pictures of the pair taking selfies and striking poses in a mirror on Facebook.
She said: “My sweet angel, there are no words that describe this feeling.
“I am so grateful for all the memories we made together and having you as my ‘built in bestie’.
“You truly were an amazing person inside and out.”
She added: “Taking some time to spend with family and friends, I appreciate all the support.”
A fundraiser has been launched to support the family.
Organiser Sharon Harris wrote: “The tragedy of losing a loved one is painful, that pain must be unimaginable when you lose someone so young and in such a tragic way.
“Morgan was a truly beautiful girl. One of the ‘blonde bombshells’. She was strong, kind, and so full of life.”
A man and a woman, both aged in their twenties, were arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death and possession of a prohibited breed of dog. They have since been released on bail.
An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said: “Morgan’s family continue to be updated on the investigation and are being supported by a specially trained officer.
“They have thanked members of the public for their support and those who have left flowers. They have asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.
“If you have any information you think could help our investigation, please contact us.”
Since last February, it has been illegal to own an XL bully without a certificate of exemption.
Source: independent.co.uk