DOG regulations will be under the spotlight later this year when a coroner examines the “tragic” death of three-year-old Ayen Chol.
Ayen was killed by a neighbour’s dog in St Albans last year in an attack witnessed by several people.
The dog’s owner has been charged and is expected to contest the charges in court later this year.
Today, coroner Kim Parkinson said that in the inquest later this year she would examine how Ayen died, the nature of the dog attack, how Ayen came to be confronted by the dog, the arrangement of how the dog was secured and how it came to be at large on the day.
She said she would also examine the type of dog involved, how such dogs were regulated and what, if any, steps had been taken to regulate their management before and after the attack.
“The circumstances of the death of little Ayen are tragic and has clearly affected everybody concerned in this proceeding,” Ms Parkinson said.
“The inquest will be conducted in a timely manner and in a way that will minimise the impact for any further impact of this tragic event on the persons concerned.”
The Coroner’s Court heard that the dog’s owner told police the animal was a German shepherd but the council had supplied information suggesting that the dog was either an American pit bull terrier or a pit bull terrier.
Ms Parkinson said that Ayen’s mother, who had given a comprehensive statement to police, would not be called to testify at the inquest.
But two women who were at the house and saw the attack would testify.
The dog’s owner will also be required to testify. Ms Parkinson said that any application for him to be excused will be heard at the inquest.
The inquest has been scheduled for August for five days. Ms Parkinson said she was trying to ensure there was no significant delay for the family.
“In recognition of the distress that the delay may cause the family of little Ayen,” Ms Parkinson said.
Two neighbours who had contact with the dog on the night of the attack, four police officers, the council ranger, the veterinarian and a council manager will be among the other witnesses at the inquest.
It is listed to begin on August 27.
