THE family of a man who died following an XL Bully dog attack in Dallam, Warrington have paid tribute to him.
John McColl, 84, sustained serious injuries following the incident, which occurred whilst he was walking home on Monday, 24 February 2024.
He was taken to hospital but sadly, despite the best efforts of all those involved, he passed away on Sunday, 30 March.
Sean Garner, of Hartsbourne Avenue, Liverpool has since been found guilty of being the owner of dog dangerously out of control, causing injury, in relation to John’s death. He had earlier admitted two counts of possession of fighting dogs (XL Bullys).
The 31-year-old was today, Friday 17 April, sentenced to 12 years in prison.
John with his daughter Joann Percival
Following the sentencing, John’s family said: “As a family, we are grateful that our dad, grandad and great grandad has finally received the justice he deserved. This has been an extremely difficult trial, and the circumstances surrounding his death — along with the impact it has had on every one of us — are something we will never forget.
“Sean Garner failed to properly care for his dog and did not keep it securely under control. His irresponsible behaviour directly led to the tragic and untimely death of our John. His neglect also resulted in the death of his own dogs. Throughout this process, he has shown no empathy and appears completely unaware of the grief and suffering our family has endured.
“By not taking responsibility for his actions our family has been caused further distress and heartbreak whilst waiting 12 months for a court case whilst we should have been grieving. We have had to re-live every moment during a prolonged trial.
“Our dad was a proud, quiet, and independent man who simply went about his daily routine. He enjoyed going to the pub to read the paper, have a pint, and socialise. He should have been spending his remaining years with family who loved him dearly. We still do not know how he initially survived the attack, but we are immensely proud of the strength he showed during his four week fight to survive.
“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the neighbours who came to John’s aid, the first responders, paramedics, police officers, and to the family liaison officers, investigation team, legal team and the barrister, who have supported us throughout the past twelve months.
“We are grateful for the support that has been shown but now ask for privacy as we continue to grieve.”
Twelve years prison for owner of XL Bully dog which killed 84-year-old man
