The American Bully XL, The Dog That Killed The Toddler, Was A Registered Dog

Bella-Rae Birch was "deeply missed but never forgotten," according to her family.

Police have confirmed that a toddler was mauled to death in her own home by an American Bully XL dog.

Bella-Rae Birch, who was 17 months old at the time of the attack in St Helens, died in hospital around 15:50 GMT on Monday.

The toddler was attacked only a week after her family purchased the dog, according to Merseyside Police.

The dog was verified to be a legitimate breed and not prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, according to the force.

Pitbull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro are the four dog breeds now prohibited in the United Kingdom.

The attack took place at the family's home on Bidston Avenue in St Helens' Blackbrook neighborhood.

One of the child's neighbors described the parents as "hysterical."

"As we were driving home from school, we heard shouting." "I just hurried over to offer assistance and began CPR until the paramedics arrived," she explained.

"I didn't notice the dog since I was focused on the baby."

Detectives said the investigation into the toddler's death was continuing and urged anyone with information to come forward.

Bella-family Rae's announced in a statement after her passing that they "would want to thank the community for their support."

"We would like some space and time to attempt to come to grips with the awful loss," they said.