Additional time to interview suspect following death of Ian Price

We have been given more time to question a man after the death of Ian Price who was attacked by two dogs in Stonnall yesterday.

Ian, aged 52, was attacked by the dogs on Main Street at around 3.15pm and sadly died last night.

A custody extension has now been granted giving detectives another 10 hours to continue questioning the 30-year-old man, from South Staffordshire, in connection with the incident.

DNA testing is required for absolute confirmation of the breed. So far, the indication from the expert examination is that they are XL Bullys.

We’re aware of comments about previous contact with the owner of the dogs and would like to share the following details.

On 14 January 2023, we received a report involving concern around two XL Bully dogs who were off their lead in a field in Stonnall.

We went to owner’s address and gave words of advice around keeping the dogs under control whilst in a shared public place. The owner was co-operative and engaged positively with officers.

Both dogs were in the address at the time and appeared to be calm. They did not show any signs of aggression towards officers.

On 30 March 2023, we then received reports that two XL Bully dogs had mounted another dog in Stonnall.

No injuries were caused to the dog or anyone who was in the area at the time.

No complaints were made in relation to the incident and no offences were identified.

The owner of the dog was spoken to by officers around making sure they are under control at all times.

Our Professional Standards Department (PSD) has concluded that it does not meet the threshold for a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Our investigation is ongoing and we will continue to provide updates when we can.