Three-week-old dies after dog bite

A baby has died after he was bitten by a dog.

Northumbria Police said the three-week-old boy was taken to hospital after he was bitten by a small terrier at an address in Falkland Road, Sunderland, but died later.

A spokesman said the dog has been removed from the address and is likely to be destroyed.

A 30-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and is helping police with their inquiries.

The police spokesman said officers were called to the property at 4.15am today.

Superintendent Gillian Mitchell said: "This is obviously a very tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family of the baby at such a difficult time.

"We are carrying out enquiries to establish the circumstances of the incident and will have extra officers in the area to allow this to be done.

"Officers will also be on patrol to offer reassurance to the local community who may be concerned."