The girl who died after being attacked by her family’s dog has today been named as Savannah Bentham, aged ten.
Savannah, from East Heslerton near Malton, lost her life despite frantic efforts to save her on Friday afternoon.
Today her family paid tribute to her.
In a statement they said: “We are utterly shocked and devastated by what happened to Savannah.
“We can’t believe we have lost our wonderful girl who we love so much.
“We thank everyone for their support and kindness as we struggle to come to terms with our loss.
“We ask that our family’s privacy is respected while we grieve for Savannah.”
Police said they were not releasing a photograph of Savannah.
Officers were called to the incident by Yorkshire Ambulance Service at around 4.15pm on Friday.
Savannah suffered serious injuries after being bitten by the dog.
Despite the efforts of medical professionals and a member of the public who came to the family’s aid, she died at the scene.
Police are trying to find out more about the behaviour of the dog to help explain, as far as possible, why it attacked the girl.
A post-mortem examination on Savannah took place on Sunday evening.
An inquest is due to open and adjourn in the coming days.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “We again urge people not to speculate about the incident and to respect the family’s wish for privacy to grieve in peace.”