The force released CCTV images of a man they urgently want to speak to

COPS have launched a manhunt after a five-year-old boy was allegedly mauled by a dog while on a train.

Police scrambled to the scene just after noon on April 5 after reports that the youngster was bitten on the arm in North Tyneside.

Police released this CCTV image of a man they want to speak to
Credit: X/@northumbriapol
The boy, who was with his mother at the time, sustained a puncture mark and bruising to his arm in the incident, Northumbria Police said.

He went to hospital for treatment and was later discharged.

Officers are investigating and have released CCTV images of a man they would like to trace.

The incident happened on the Metro travelling between Benton and Palmersville stations.

Northumbria Police said the man was “in the area at the time” the boy was reportedly bitten.

The force believe he may be able to assist with their enquiries and have asked him to come forward.

Cops have also urged anyone with information to get in touch immediately.

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “Officers are hoping to identify a man as they investigate a report that a child was bitten by a dog while on a Metro train.

“The man was in the area at the time the boy is reported to have been bitten by the dog, and officers believe he may be able to assist with their enquiries.

“The man, or anyone who knows who he is, should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media, or use the live chat function on the Force website.”

For those unable to contact the force via those ways, call 101.

Cops said any callers should quote crime reference 038016S/25.

They believe the man can assist with enquiries