A woman who died in a house explosion in Bristol suffered fatal blast injuries, an inquest has revealed. Jo Shaw, 35, was killed in the incident on Sterncourt Road on 3 May, alongside her former partner, Ryan Kelly, 41.
Inquest Details
Assistant Avon coroner Debbie Rookes opened the inquest during a brief hearing at Avon Coroner's Court in Flax Bourton. Coroner's officer Abigail Carey told the hearing that Ms Shaw was pronounced dead at home by paramedics at 7am, shortly after the explosion.
Police and emergency services had attended her address following the activation of an explosive device, Ms Carey said. A post-mortem report from Dr Russell Delaney gave a proposed cause of death as penetrating fragmentation blast injury to the chest and pelvis.
The court heard that Ms Shaw, who was single and worked as a personal assistant, was formally identified by her family. Ms Rookes adjourned proceedings and requested further reports from a general practitioner, police, ambulance service, and pathologist. She also requested background information from Ms Shaw's family, who were not present at the hearing.
Police Investigation
Avon and Somerset Police have recorded Ms Shaw's death as a homicide and are treating the cause of the explosion as deliberate. The force stated it is not looking for anyone else in connection with her death. Three other people, including a child, sustained minor injuries.
Police previously reported that a call was received from inside the house at 6.17am regarding a domestic-related incident. The caller said a man they knew had forced entry. While officers were dispatched, the caller reported at 6.30am that the man was believed to be in possession of an explosive device. Approximately two minutes later, the explosion occurred, killing Ms Shaw and her former partner.
Officers arrived at 6.34am, followed by fire and ambulance services. Residents were evacuated from neighbouring properties, and the Army conducted searches to ensure the area was safe. Searches also took place at Mr Kelly's address in Speedwell, but no evacuations were required there.
Family Tribute
Ms Shaw's family paid tribute to her, describing her as a devoted mother who showed extraordinary bravery. They said: "Joanne brought warmth, kindness, and strength into the lives of countless people. Her loving presence will be missed more than words can ever express."
They added: "Her child has suffered the unimaginable loss of their mummy. Joanne's love for her child was boundless. She showed extraordinary strength, selflessness, and love in the face of unimaginable fear, placing herself between danger and those she loved."
Ms Shaw, known as Jo, grew up in the Stapleton area of Bristol, where she was well-known for her bubbly, friendly personality. Her family said she loved meeting new people and forming eternal friendships, and was the "life and soul not only of the party, but our lives."
The inquest file is expected to be reviewed on 20 July, with a full hearing scheduled for 11 August.
