Tearful father tells of moment he found his daughter, 19, dead at home ‘after family dog attacked her’

A post-mortem examination was due to take place on Sunday to confirm the cause of the young woman’s death.

Church Warden David Tregunno from the local church, St Michael’s and All the Angels, opened up the space for prayer and reflection on Sunday afternoon.

He said: ‘We’re obviously thinking and praying for the young lady who has recently died in this very terrible situation.

‘We’re opening the church today between one and three if anyone wants to come in to pray or reflect on the situation. We’ll be thinking of her, and you’d be very welcome to come.’

Essex Police said on Sunday: ‘We are now in a position to confirm that Jamie-Lea Biscoe, 19, died from injuries believed to have been suffered as a result of a dog attack.

‘A 37-year-old man from Dunmow, arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control and causing injury resulting in death, has now been bailed until July while enquiries continue.

‘The dog, which was a family pet, has been seized, and it is believed to be a Lurcher Cross, but tests are underway to formally establish the precise breed.’

Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said: ‘Our thoughts remain with all those who knew and loved Jamie-Lea. Her young life has been so tragically cut short.

‘Our detectives are continuing to work around the clock to establish exactly what happened, and specialist officers are continuing to support Jamie-Lea’s family.

‘This is unimaginable for her loved ones and friends, and, as such, I would ask people to respect their grief and privacy at this extremely difficult time.

‘Our officers remain at the scene, and anyone with concerns or information can speak with them there or contact us in the usual way.’