The family dog that killed a four-year-old girl in a horror arrack in her own back garden was not a banned breed, police have announced.
Alice Stones was savaged by the crazed animal in the back yard of her home in Milton Keynes on the evening of January 31.
Thames Valley Police have formally identified the toddler and confirmed testing has revealed the dog was not on the banned breed list.
In a statement they said: "There has also been a large amount of speculation around the breed of the dog.
"Although we are not in a position to confirm the exact breed of the dog due to the requirement for further testing, we are able to confirm that the dog is not a banned breed."
Mum Louise Stones, 25, was overheard screaming “she’s dead, she’s dead” after witnessing the horrific attack.
Members of the emergency services rushed to the scene but tragically Alice was pronounced dead. Shortly afterwards the dog was shot dead by armed cops.
Rita Matthews, who lives two doors away from the scene, said she knew Louise as they walked their children to school together.
She said: "The first I knew what was happening was when lots of police cars turned up in the street. Officers told everyone that nobody was to go outside their homes.
"I used to walk to school with little Alice's mum so I know the family quite well. Her parents are a couple and are lovely people.
“She was always holding her mummy's hand on the way back.
"She would say, 'Bye, auntie', and I would say, 'Bye, little girl', you know kids, playing around.
"It's so sad we're not going to see the girl again and I pray all the best to her mum to get her strength back."
Several bouquets of flowers were left at the scene of the tragedy as specialist police officers continue to help the family.
Local community councillor Donna Fuller said at the time: "Netherfield is a very tight-knit estate and the whole community is grieving. There is a profound sense of sadness and shock at what has happened."
Friends are now raising money online to support the single mum as she prepares for her daughter’s funeral.
In an update on the GoFundMe, pal Grace Wenham posted a new photo of little Alice.
It shows the tragic youngster blowing out candles on her birthday cake after turning four last August.
In a note accompanying the snap Grace posted a message from Alice’s grieving mum and other relatives.
She wrote: "The family … want to thank everyone who has donated, shared or sent their condolences during this horrendous time.
"Nothing has gone unnoticed and they are overwhelmed with the love felt by the community during this unthinkable tragedy."
The fund, which will pay for the funeral and living costs for Louise, now stands at nearly £3,000.
The page says: "Sadly, on the 31st January 2023, this world lost a beautiful little 4 year old girl to a tragic, awful accident.
"We are the close friends and family of this loving mother and daughter, we are seeking support in raising money to help towards cost of funeral and living in this desperate time of need.
"Anything that can be contributed will go towards supporting mum and family getting the help and support necessary In order to make this the most special and beautiful send off this little princess deserves.
"We greatly appreciate everyone's love and condolences, please help us in allowing this family the time to grieve during this heartbreaking tragedy"
You can donate to the family's fundraiser here.
