Inquest opens into death of nine-month-old baby killed in XL bully attack
An investigation has been opened into the death of a nine-month-old baby killed in an XL bully attack.
Jonte William Bluck was bitten by the family pet while staying at his father’s home in Crossway, Rogiet, on November 2.
The inquest into his death was opened at Gwent Coroner’s Court on Monday but was adjourned until August next year while police investigations continue.
District coroner Rose Farmer said: “Jonte William Bluck sadly passed away at his home address on 2 November 2025.
“In short, he was bitten by the family dog while he was staying at his father’s house on November 2.
“He was transported to Grange University Hospital but died before arrival.
“An investigation has been opened because there is reason to suspect that he died as a result of a dog bite.”
A compressive head injury consistent with a dog bite was cited as the provisional cause of death.
The investigation was postponed until August 4, 2026.
Following his death, a man in his 30s and a woman in her 20s from Rogiet were arrested on suspicion of taking responsibility for a dog that got dangerously out of control and caused fatal injuries.
Both men were arrested on suspicion of child neglect.
They were later released after further police interrogations.
The dog involved was a six-year-old XL bully, which is registered with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and was granted an exemption certificate in 2024.
It was removed after the incident.
