A woman who died in an explosion at her home in Bristol suffered fatal injuries from a fragmentation blast, an inquest has revealed. Jo Shaw, 35, was killed in the incident on Sterncourt Road on May 3, which police believe was deliberately caused by her former partner, Ryan Kelly, 41, who also sustained fatal wounds.
Details of the Incident
Neighbours reported that Kelly forced his way into the house and detonated a hand grenade in an apparent murder-suicide. The mother of one had fled from him in fear for her safety and moved in with her family. She had repeatedly contacted police about his behaviour prior to her death. In the moments before the explosion, Ms Shaw managed to save her child by sending him outside to play on a trampoline as an argument escalated.
Avon and Somerset Police are treating the explosion as deliberate and have recorded Ms Shaw's death as a homicide. No other suspects are being sought. Three other individuals, including a child, sustained minor injuries.
Inquest Proceedings
An inquest was opened by Assistant Avon Coroner Debbie Rookes at Avon Coroner's Court in Flax Bourton. Coroner's officer Abigail Carey stated that Ms Shaw was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics at 7am. A post-mortem report by Dr Russell Delaney gave the cause of death as penetrating fragmentation blast injury to the chest and pelvis.
Ms Shaw, a single personal assistant, was formally identified by her family. The coroner adjourned proceedings and requested further reports from a GP, police, ambulance service, and pathologist, as well as background information from the family, who were not present at the hearing.
Family Tribute
Ms Shaw's family paid tribute, saying: '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 actions were nothing short of heroic. She showed extraordinary strength, selflessness, and love in the face of unimaginable fear.'
Background of Ryan Kelly
The Daily Mail previously reported that Kelly was jailed for five years in 2015 for conspiracy to supply cocaine as part of a 'Breaking Bad' drugs gang. The plot involved a cancer-stricken mastermind who ran the operation from prison, but it was thwarted before drugs could be distributed.
Police received a call at 6.17am reporting a domestic incident, with the caller stating a man had forced entry. At 6.30am, the caller reported the man had an explosive device. Two minutes later, the explosion occurred. Officers arrived at 6.34am, followed by fire and ambulance services. Neighbouring properties were evacuated, and Army searches ensured the area was safe. Searches also took place at Kelly's address in Speedwell.
