Cordons lifted on Gravelly Hill following reported dog attack

Police cordons on Gravelly Hill in Caterham have now been lifted following the completion of forensic work in relation to the death of a woman in a reported dog attack yesterday (Jan 12).

The 28-year-old woman from London, who was believed to have been out walking dogs, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. She has yet to be formally identified but her next of kin have been informed.

A post-mortem examination to establish the cause of her death will take place in the coming days.

Eight dogs have been seized and remain in the custody of police. Their owners have all been contacted.

This weekend, local neighbourhood teams will continue to provide an increased police presence at Gravelly Hill to provide reassurance for any local residents and visitors.

Detective Inspector Josephine Horner, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “This is a tragic incident where a young woman has sadly lost her life. Our thoughts remain with her family and friends and the family have asked that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

“Specialist teams have been carrying out forensic work at the scene but this has now been completed and the area has re-opened to the public.

“I know this incident has caused real concerns locally and officers from the local neighbourhood team will be out in the area to provide reassurance for residents. The investigation to establish the circumstances around this incident continue and I urge anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police to contact us.”

If you have information you can contact police quoting PR/45230004384 via:

• Webchat on our website https://www.surrey.police.uk/
• Our online reporting tool https://www.surrey.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
• Calling us on 101

If you don’t want to speak to police you can call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.