A 19-year-old woman died from severe traumatic injuries to her neck after a family dog attacked her at home in Leaden Roding, Essex. Jamie-Lea Biscoe was discovered by her father in an upstairs bedroom on the evening of April 10.
Inquest Details Emerge
Court coordinator Matthew Austin described the scene, noting serious traumatic injuries to her neck likely caused by one of the family’s dogs. A forensic post-mortem examination determined the cause of death as neck injuries, pending further histology and toxicology investigations.
Essex senior coroner Lincoln Brookes received a request from Essex Police to pause proceedings due to an ongoing criminal investigation. He suspended the inquest and offered deepest condolences to Jamie-Lea’s family, friends, and loved ones, calling it a tragic loss of life.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Essex Police responded to a property in Long Hide, Leaden Roding, at 10:45 p.m. on April 10, where Ms. Biscoe was pronounced dead at the scene. A 37-year-old man from Dunmow was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control, causing injury resulting in death. He has been released on bail until July.
The family pet, believed to be a lurcher cross named Shy, was seized. Authorities are conducting tests to confirm its exact breed.
Father’s Heartbreaking Account
Jack Biscoe, Jamie-Lea’s 37-year-old father and a horse trainer, discovered his daughter collapsed between his bed and bedside table. While attempting to revive her, Shy attacked him, biting off part of his ear—requiring reconstructive surgery—and causing puncture wounds to his arms.
Jack described Shy as the “softest dog” with no prior history of biting or aggression. He purchased her as a seven-week-old puppy and trusted her completely. “My daughter was not killed by an XL Bully; she was killed by a genuine family dog,” Jack stated. “I thought I could trust that dog with my life, and it took my daughter’s life. She was my daughter’s best friend, and she still killed her.”
Jack pleaded with police to destroy Shy immediately, saying, “Please just put her down. I don’t want to see her ever again. I just don’t think that dog should live anymore.” He confirmed Shy was covered in blood and attacked him as well.
Call to Destroy Puppies
Shy’s puppies, Bella and Mouse—both 18 months old—are not believed to have participated in the attack. However, Jack insists they also be euthanized. “Those dogs have seen too much. They need to be put down in my opinion,” he said. “I don’t want them to live in this world now. Even though the youngsters didn’t do anything, they’ve seen too much and I don’t think they could ever be placed with a family again.”
