Police probe into Doncaster newborn baby killed by dog still ongoing five months on

A police investigation into the death of a Doncaster newborn baby mauled to death by a dog is still ongoing, more than five months on from the tragedy, a force spokesman has said.
Elon-Jase was savaged by a dog at the family home in Woodlands.Elon-Jase was savaged by a dog at the family home in Woodlands.
Elon-Jase was savaged by a dog at the family home in Woodlands.

Elon-Jase Ellis-Joynes died in hospital on September 13 last year after being attacked by family pet Teddy, a Chow Chow crossbreed, at the family’s home in Welfare Road, Woodlands.

The baby’s parents, dad Stephen Joynes, 35, and mum Abigail Ellis, 27, were both arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.

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They have both been bailed while investigations into the tragedy continue.

South Yorkshire Police have said the dog involved in the tragedy has now been destroyed but that the investigation is continuing. No charges have yet been brought.

A private funeral service for 12-day-old Elon-Jase took place on October 2 and an inquest into his death was opened by Doncaster Coroner Nicola Mundy last year.

The inquest hearing was adjourned while the police investigation continues.

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Elon, born on September 1, was rushed to hospital from his family home but was pronounced dead a short time later, sparking the police probe.

The dog escaped from a back garden pen and attacked the baby while his father was outside and his mother was on the toilet.

Coroner Mundy said: "I am aware that there is an ongoing investigation and I adjourn this inquest until matters are investigated."

A number of floral tributes were left outside the family home in the aftermath of the attack while friends, relatives and neighbours paid tribute on social media.