A police officer injured in an attack by a pitbull terrier has been released from hospital.

Officers responded to a report of threatening behaviour outside a restaurant on Front Street, Hamilton around 12.44pm on Wednesday.

A suspect became aggressive while talking to police and later set his dog on one of the officers. The dog latched onto the officer’s arm and did not let go.

The officer, with the assistance of colleagues, eventually got free and restrained the dog to keep it from attacking anyone else. The dog died while it was being subdued.

The officer was taken to the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital to receive treatment for his injuries.

A police spokeswoman said: “The Bermuda Police Service can confirm that the police officer who was injured after the incident with the pitbull terrier, on Wednesday July 27, has been treated for his wounds and released from hospital.

“An investigation into the incident has commenced and we continue to appeal for witnesses to contact the Criminal Investigation Unit on 211. We are particularly interested in speaking with individuals who may have recorded video footage of the incident.

“A 36-year-old man has arrested in connection with this incident and a file is being prepared with an anticipated court appearance.”

Addressing speculation about the incident, the spokeswoman denied that the dog died after being shot or tasered.

She said: “The dog was not shot. No firearms were used during this incident. It died during the struggle with the officer that was attacked.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident should contact police at 211.