The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the deaths of Jo Shaw, 35, and her former partner Ryan Kelly, 41, following an explosion at a property in Bristol on May 3.
Incident Overview
The explosion occurred at Ms Shaw's home on Sterncourt Road, Bristol. Both individuals sustained fatal injuries when an explosive device was activated. Avon and Somerset Police are treating the explosion as deliberate, and Ms Shaw's death has been recorded as a homicide. No other suspects are being sought in connection with her death.
IOPC Investigation Scope
The IOPC is examining the contact Ms Shaw and Mr Kelly had with Avon and Somerset Police prior to the incident. Police last had contact with Ms Shaw four days before the explosion. The watchdog will review past incidents over a five-year period, from May 2021, focusing on Mr Kelly's behaviour, including allegations of stalking, harassment, and assault.
IOPC director Derrick Campbell stated: "My thoughts and sympathies are with everyone affected at this very difficult time. We are independent of the police and it is important that we carry out a thorough investigation, to fully establish the circumstances of what happened prior to the tragic events of May 3. There is a significant history of police involvement in relation to Mr Kelly's behaviour, including allegations of stalking, harassment and assault which we need to examine as part of our investigation. We are reviewing extensive documentation detailing that history as part of our inquiries. We will be keeping all interested parties updated as our investigation, which is at an early stage, progresses."
Timeline of Events
Police received a call from inside the house at 6:17 am reporting a domestic-related incident, stating that a man known to the caller had forced entry. The caller remained on the line while officers were dispatched. At 6:30 am, the caller informed police that the man was believed to be in possession of an explosive device. Approximately two minutes later, the explosion occurred, killing Ms Shaw and Mr Kelly. Officers arrived at 6:34 am, followed shortly by fire and ambulance services.
Injuries and Inquests
Three other people, including a child, sustained minor injuries. Separate opening inquests revealed that Ms Shaw died from a "penetrating fragmentation blast injury to the chest and pelvis," while Mr Kelly suffered "blast injuries to head, neck, torso and limbs." Inquests are scheduled to resume in August at Avon Coroner's Court.
Police and Army Response
Residents in neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution. 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.
