Boy 9 dies after bulldog attack in Cornwall caravan

Tragic Death of Frankie MacRitchie

Aunt Danielle MacRitchie received a devastating 5am phone call with the message: “Frankie is dead.” Her nine-year-old nephew was left alone with a 7st American bulldog that had previously attacked another child, leading to his tragic death.

Details of the Incident

Frankie MacRitchie was mauled to death by a bulldog while on holiday in Cornwall. Aunt Danielle described Frankie as a “special” child, stating that the family is living with a “life sentence” due to his death. She expressed anger towards Frankie’s mother, Tawnee Willis.

Background Information

Frankie was a gentle boy with a heart condition. He was left alone with the “extremely powerful” dog named Winston, while his mother and other adults were drinking and using cocaine in another caravan. When Willis checked on Frankie, she found him on the ground and the blood-soaked dog staring at her.

Injuries and Aftermath

Frankie suffered 54 injuries, including a 15cm head wound, and died from blood loss. His PlayStation was still on, and it is feared that his voice while playing may have startled the bulldog. Both Willis and the dog’s owner, Sadie Totterdell, were jailed for their roles in the incident.

Legal Consequences

Willis was sentenced to two years in prison for child neglect, while Totterdell received a three-year sentence for having a dog dangerously out of control. Totterdell was also banned from keeping dogs for ten years.

Community Response

The family has created a community interest company, Frankie’s Superheroes, in his memory. Danielle aims to raise awareness about the dangers of certain dog breeds around children.

Mother’s Apology

Willis expressed her sorrow at an inquest into Frankie’s death, stating she was “truly, truly sorry.” However, Danielle stated she will never forgive her, emphasizing that leaving Frankie alone was neglect.

Coroner’s Findings

HM Senior Coroner for Cornwall, Andrew Cox, noted that Frankie was left unsupervised with the dog, which had a history of aggression. He stated that earlier incidents involving the dog could have led to a different outcome if investigated properly.