Police have found the body of a teenage girl amongst aggressive and out-of-control dogs, which had to be destroyed by armed officers.
Local sources have named her as 14-year-old Jade Anderson. Superintendent Mark Kenny said the teenager's injuries were "consistent with her having been attacked by dogs".
A police spokesman said four dogs were so dangerously out-of-control when they reached the property on Chaucer Grove, Atherton, near Bolton, that they had to be "humanely" destroyed.
A fifth dog was found also inside the house where the 14-year-old was found.
Police said the breeds of the dogs had not been confirmed, but early indications are that two may be bull mastiffs and two may be Staffordshire bull terriers.
The girl is believed to have been visiting the address and nobody else was present at the house, police said.
Superintendent Mark Kenny said: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family of the girl who has tragically lost her life.
"I understand this is an extremely distressing incident for all concerned, including the community, and we will work hard to establish the full circumstances that lead to this tragedy.
"There will be a significant police presence in the area, which will remain this afternoon and evening. We will be there to carry out an investigation and address any concerns residents may have.
"It would be too early for us to speculate about what has happened, and further information will be released when it becomes available."
Friends have organised a vigil for the teen, and posted tributes on Facebook. One read: "Jade you will be missed....... Science lessons just wont be the same. I will miss you in my class. Thoughts are with your family and your friends at this awful time."
Another friend posted: "Rest in peace cuz. You will be missed by a lot of people, going miss you so much hun rip."