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Sean Garner convicted over fatal XL Bully attack
A 31-year-old man has been convicted following a fatal dog attack that shocked a community and reignited debate around dangerous breeds in the UK.
Sean Garner, from Liverpool, was found guilty at Liverpool Crown Court of being the owner of a dog that was dangerously out of control causing injury, after his XL Bully fatally mauled an elderly man.
The fatal attack
The victim, 84-year-old John McColl, was attacked in February 2025 in Warrington, Cheshire, after he walked onto the driveway of Garner’s home.
The XL Bully, named Toretto, launched a sustained and brutal attack. Prosecutors told the court the dog “savaged” the pensioner and guarded him “as if he were its prey”, preventing members of the public from intervening.
Despite attempts by bystanders to stop the attack using nearby objects, the dog continued mauling Mr McColl until armed police were forced to intervene. Officers ultimately shot the animal multiple times to bring the situation under control and allow emergency services to reach the victim.
Mr McColl was taken to hospital with catastrophic injuries but tragically died around a month later.
Disturbing details revealed in court
The trial heard deeply distressing evidence about the severity of the attack. A post-mortem examination of the dog revealed human remains in its stomach, underlining the extreme nature of the incident.
Jurors were also told that the dog had effectively stood guard over the victim, preventing immediate medical assistance.
Garner had previously admitted to possessing banned XL Bully-type dogs without the required exemption certificates, which are mandatory under UK law.
Owner’s defence and actions
During the trial, Garner claimed he had taken precautions and insisted the dog had been secured before the incident. He said he was “devastated” and would not wish such an attack on anyone.
However, prosecutors argued the dog was not adequately contained. Evidence suggested it was able to access the driveway area where the attack occurred.
After the attack, Garner initially failed to return home when contacted by police and instead went on the run before later handing himself in, a detail that was also presented during proceedings.
Wider context and public concern
The case comes amid growing concern over XL Bully dogs in the UK. The breed has been subject to strict regulations, including bans on breeding and requirements for registration, muzzling, and insurance.
This tragic incident adds to a series of serious and fatal attacks involving powerful dog breeds, intensifying calls for tougher enforcement and responsible ownership.
Conclusion
Sean Garner’s conviction marks a significant moment in the ongoing national conversation about dangerous dogs.
For the family of John McColl, the verdict brings a measure of justice—but also serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences when powerful animals are not properly controlled.
Attached is a news article regarding Sean garner found guilty over fatal XL bully attack on pensioner
https://news.sky.com/story/owner-of-xl-bully-that-savaged-84-year-old-man-found-guilty-13524972
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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