News / Crime
Woman killed in blast after ex-partner ‘forced entry’ with explosive device
Two people killed in an explosion on Sunday morning have been named as Jo Shaw, 35, and her former partner Ryan Kelly, 41.
Police said officers were called to Shaw’s house on Sterncourt Road in Frenchay at 6.17am after a report that a man, believed to be Kelly, had forced entry.
Several double-crewed units were heading to the address when, at around 6.30, the caller told police the man, who they knew, was believed to have an explosive device.
Around two minutes later there was an explosion, which killed Shaw and Kelly and injured three others including a child.
Avon & Somerset Police said they will refer themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct because the deaths occurred following “previous police contact”.
They said other domestic incidents had been reported to the police before Sunday.
Kelly was previously jailed for his part in a scuppered drugs operation.
The three injured people, including the person who called police, were treated for minor injuries and did not need to stay in hospital.
Superintendent Matt Ebbs said: “We know people will be shocked and upset to learn of the horrendous events that happened on Sunday morning.
“Jo’s death has been officially recorded as a homicide based on the information known to us at this time. We are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.
“We know everyone’s thoughts and sympathies will be with her devastated family. Specially-trained officers are providing them with updates and support.”
Police believe the cause of the explosion to be deliberate and conducted enquiries at an address linked to Kelly.
They do not believe it is terrorism-related.
Main photo: Martin Booth
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