The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated an investigation into the tragic deaths of a woman and her ex-partner following a house explosion in Bristol.
Jo Shaw, 35, lost her life due to severe injuries caused by her former partner, Ryan Kelly, 41, who intentionally detonated an explosive device at her residence on Sterncourt Road on May 3, resulting in both of their deaths.
Kelly, a past member of a local drug gang, arrived at Shaw’s house with an explosive device in hand, which he activated, leading to the fatal outcome. A neighbor mentioned that Shaw had directed a child to play outside on a trampoline during an argument just before the explosion.
The IOPC is now looking into the interactions between Ms. Shaw, Mr. Kelly, and the Avon and Somerset Police prior to the incident. Neighbors had reported Shaw’s complaints to the police about Kelly’s harassment.
Avon and Somerset Police classified the explosion as deliberate, labeling Shaw’s death as a homicide. They confirmed that they are not searching for anyone else connected to the incident. Three individuals, including a child, suffered minor injuries in the blast.
The police had been contacted by someone within the house at 6:17 am concerning a domestic situation involving a known individual forcing entry. The caller remained on the line as officers were dispatched. By 6:30 am, the caller informed the police that the individual had an explosive device. Shortly after, an explosion occurred, resulting in the fatalities.
The IOPC director expressed condolences to those affected and stressed the importance of a comprehensive investigation to uncover the events leading up to the tragedy. The inquiry will review Mr. Kelly’s history of alleged stalking, harassment, and assault, spanning five years up to May 2021.
For confidential assistance related to domestic abuse, individuals can contact the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline at 0808 2000 247 or visit womensaid.co.uk. AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) also offers specialized support for those who have lost a loved one due to fatal domestic abuse.