A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following a fatal dog attack in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Saturday on a public footpath along a disused railway near Blacker Lane in Calder Grove.

The victim, a 55-year-old man, was reportedly bitten by a German Shepherd during an altercation with the dog’s owner. He was taken to hospital in critical condition but died shortly after 7 p.m. the same day.

West Yorkshire Police said the 55-year-old suspect is also being questioned on suspicion of owning a dog dangerously out of control in a public place, causing injury. The German Shepherd involved in the attack has been seized by authorities.

Detective Chief Inspector Michael Cox appealed for witnesses to come forward, particularly mentioning two women, including one named Sophie, who stopped to assist the victim and helped direct police at the scene. He emphasized that the area is frequented by walkers and urged anyone who may have witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it to contact the police.

The investigation remains ongoing as police continue to gather evidence surrounding the circumstances of the attack.