Tragedy struck a Rochdale farm as a three-year-old boy was fatally attacked by a Cane Corso dog. Daniel Twigg suffered multiple head and neck injuries in the brutal attack at Carr Farm on May 15, 2022. Despite rushed efforts, he died later that day at Manchester Children’s Hospital.
Dog Attack Shock on Family Farm
The dog, named Sid, was among 11 dogs kept in poor conditions at the property the family had only moved into two months earlier. Daniel was left unsupervised in a pen with the dogs when the attack happened.
Parents Sentenced for Dangerous Control of Dog
Daniel’s parents, Mark Twigg, 43, and Joanne Bedford, 37, were cleared of manslaughter but found guilty of letting a dog dangerously out of control and causing injury. Bedford was jailed for three and a half years, while Twigg received two years and eight months behind bars.
Both were banned from owning dogs for 15 years.
Judge Mr Justice Kerr said: “No sentence can undo the damage done, nor ease the grief of the bereaved. You have both lost your beloved son. The wrongdoing that led to Daniel’s death must be punished, and it is my mournful duty to see it done.”
Authorities Warn of Dog Owner Responsibility
Detective Sergeant Mark Evans called the incident “deeply tragic and traumatic,” highlighting that Daniel was a bright, curious toddler unaware of the dangers posed by dogs.
Dog Legislation Officer Stephen Greenough stressed the power and unpredictability of the dogs involved, warning, “Dogs should never be left unattended with children, particularly under sixteen. This heartbreaking case shows the devastating consequences when owners fail.”
He urged all dog owners to take their responsibilities seriously and warned the law will hold irresponsible owners to account. The public is advised to report any dangerous dogs in the community to prevent further tragedies.
Family Tribute to Daniel
Daniel’s family remembered him as a “happy, kind and caring little boy loved by all who knew him.”
