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Emma Whitfield said her son Jack Lis, 10, was “taken so tragically” while out playing near their home. It comes as Gwent Police continue their investigation into the attack, which happened at a friend’s house in Caerphilly, SouthWales, on Monday. The dog, believed to be anAmerican pitbull owned by the family of Jack’s friend, was shot by police. Emma had announced the tragic news on Facebook so that her family and friends did not hear it first on television or radio.

She said: “With so much heartbreak and before close friends and family see his name in the news, I have to announce our beautiful boy Jack was taken so tragically yesterday. It was not our dog, nor did it happen at our family home. He was out to play. We love you so much our sweet, sweet boy.”

Her neighbour Tracey Lawrence told how the horror unfolded after Jack went to his friend’s house following lessons.

She said: “They tried to open the door and get the boy out, but the dog was latched on to the boy and he couldn’t get him off. It’s really traumatised them. I’ve got a grandson who plays in my garden and just the thought that the dog was next door is frightening.”

Resident Lorraine Irvine said: “The kids were hysterical and within minutes I’ve never seen so many police cars in my life.” Another neighbour said: “I feel sick to my stomach thinking about what happened to that boy.”

Police said the “strong and powerful” dog was wrestled off its victim, but Welsh Ambulance Service paramedics declared Jack dead at the scene.

Gareth Rees, Jack’s headteacher at Cwm Ifor Primary School, in Caerphilly, said the community had been “rocked by the tragic events”. He described Jack as a “bright and caring pupil who was popular among his peers and the teaching staff”. The head added that support was being offered to pupils and staff “as we come to terms with this devastating news”.

Well-wishers left flowers and sympathy cards at the scene of the attack, including one which read: “RIP little one.” His mother’s Facebook post was shared nearly 2,000 times, and more than 500 people sent messages of sympathy.

Elouise Kidley said: “He was a great boy and a special friend to me. He made sure I was OK even when he wasn’t. I will miss him, same as everyone else.” Nadia Roodhouse Fish said: “Jack will be in all our thoughts as will you and your family.”

Police were conducting door-to-door inquiries in the area yesterday and forensic officers were searching the scene for clues. Chief Supt Mark Hobrough said an expert would confirm the dog’s identity and whether it was illegal under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

He said: “We can confirm that the attack did not happen in the house owned by Jack’s family, but inside another property on a nearby street. Officers are continuing to make further inquiries at this time and will remain at the scene as the investigation progresses. There will be a significant presence of officers in this area.”

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