A chilling encounter unfolded in Birmingham when nine-year-old Eva Isaura was viciously mauled by an unleashed dog while walking home with her mother, Alicia Isaura, in Pype Hayes, Erdington. The harrowing incident occurred on Sunday, November 16, at the junction of Springthorpe Green and Spiral Green.
Eva and her mother had just visited Michael’s convenience store and were heading back when two dogs, described as ‘XL Bully-type,’ were roaming freely without leads or an owner in sight. Suddenly, one of the dogs—a dark brown XL Bully—crossed the road and attacked Eva, biting and locking onto her left leg.
Two men jumped from a nearby car in a desperate attempt to free Eva. Alicia recalled the terrifying moments, explaining how the dog ignored all attempts to be stopped and even bit Eva’s arm after releasing her leg. The aggressive dog showed no interest in Alicia or the rescuers, heightening the fear of the ordeal.
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“Once these dogs have locked their jaws, you just can’t get them off," Alicia said. “Eva was screaming and shaking from shock. She told me, ‘Mum, I’m going to die.’ Those words will haunt me forever.”
Her older sister, Nyema, 14, rushed outside after hearing Eva’s screams and called emergency services. Ambulance crews arrived promptly and transported Eva to Birmingham Children’s Hospital by blue light, where she underwent surgery to close severe wounds on her leg. She remains in hospital, requiring further operations and physiotherapy, and has suffered nerve damage leaving parts of her leg numb.
Eva’s father, Taurai Mangenje, voiced grave concerns about the safety of children in their community. He revealed that other dog attacks had occurred that same night and called urgently for action to locate the dogs and their owner.
“These dogs shouldn’t be roaming the streets,” Taurai stated. “Eva’s injuries were horrific, with deep wounds reaching her thigh. I fear for the children around here if these dogs remain at large.”
West Midlands Police continue their investigation, appealing for any witnesses or information. They urge anyone who saw the attack or knows about the dogs’ whereabouts to contact them immediately.
This terrifying event serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by uncontrolled dogs and the urgent need for responsible ownership and community vigilance.