Shiney Row: Man bailed after suspected American bully XL attack

Ian Langley was fatally wounded in the attack in Shiney Row on Tuesday evening

A man who was arrested following the death of a 54-year-old in a suspected American bully XL attack has been released on bail.

Ian Langley originally from Liverpool was fatally wounded in Maple Terrace in Shiney Row, near Houghton-le-Spring, on Tuesday.

Officers said a 44-year-old who had been re-arrested on suspicion of murder was released on bail on Thursday.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said inquiries were continuing.

The dog was shot dead at the scene and a second dog was also seized.

• What is an American bully XL and why are they being banned?

The arrested man was originally held on suspicion of wounding with intent before being re-arrested on suspicion of murder.

People have left floral tributes at the scene

On Tuesday, Det Ch Insp Angela Hudson said there was no wider threat to the public and those involved were "known to each other".

Residents said they saw paramedics working on Mr Langley before he died "despite the efforts of hospital medics".

Linda Blyth, who lives in Maple Terrace, said police responded in large numbers and officers told residents to go inside.

Police said it was an "absolutely tragic incident"

"We were told 'go in, shut your doors' and then I heard the gun shot," she said.

"I don't know what set the dog off, everyone is speculating," she said.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has promised to ban the bully XL breed by the end of the year under the Dangerous Dogs Act following a series of attacks.

A spokesman previously said a "transition period" would be introduced, with details likely to follow a consultation on the plan.