A 10-year-old-boy has been killed in a dog attack near Caerphilly in South Wales.

Armed police were sent to an address in Pentwyn, Penyrheol, at 3.55pm on Monday, accompanied by paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service.

They confirmed a child had died at the scene.

The dog was destroyed by firearms officers and no other animals were involved.

Caerphilly County Borough councillor Steve Skivens told Wales Online that he became aware of the incident after his wife, a community councillor, noticed a large police presence.

Mr Skivens said: “Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the young man who has lost his life.

“We would also like to extend our thoughts to all the emergency services who attended the incident. Unfortunately an animal had to be put down.

“We await the details from the police. It’s a tragic, tragic loss of a young life.”

Another councillor, Lindsay Geoffrey Whittle, told the news website: “The entire community is in total shock at such a terribly devastating incident. We are all thinking of [the child’s] loved ones.

“It’s absolutely tragic, heart-breaking.”

The council has been asked to provide assistance and support to staff and students at the local school, he added.

Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough said: “Officers will be making further enquiries at this time and will remain at the scene as the investigation progresses.

“It is possible that you may see ongoing police activity in Caerphilly as part of this work.

“You may have also seen an increased presence earlier today while officers were attending the incident, but please do not be alarmed.

“If you have concerns or information then please do stop and talk with us.”

Much of the street was cordoned off on Monday night while forensics officers worked at the scene.