Inquest hears how woman died after deliberate explosion at her Bristol home

A woman who was killed in a deliberate explosion at her home in Bristol died from "penetrating blast injuries" to her chest and pelvis, an inquest has heard.

Jo Shaw, 35, was killed in the early hours of 3 May at her property in Bristol. Her former partner, Ryan Kelly, 41, also died.

Three other people, including a child, sustained minor injuries. Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

An inquest was opened on Monday by Avon coroner Debbie Rookes, who heard that Ms Shaw was pronounced dead at the property on Sterncourt Road, Frenchay, by paramedics at 7am.

"Police and emergency services attended her home address following activation of an explosive device," she said.

"A short form post-mortem report from Dr Russell Delaney gives a proposed cause of death as penetrating fragmentation blast injury to the chest and pelvis."

Police previously said they received a call from a person inside the house at 6.17am, saying a man they knew had forced entry inside.

Ten minutes later, while still connected to police, the caller said the man was believed to be in possession of an explosive device. Shortly after, an explosion was heard.

Ms Rookes adjourned proceedings and request further reports from a GP, police, ambulance and pathologist.

She also requested further background information from Ms Shaw's family, who were not present at the hearing.

In a tribute released in the days following the explosion, Ms Shaw's family 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, but her memory will forever remain in our hearts."

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They added: "Her child has suffered the unimaginable loss of their mummy in this tragedy.

"Joanne's love for her child was boundless, and the centre of her world. She was a devoted and loving mother.

"Joanne's actions were nothing short of heroic. She showed extraordinary strength, selflessness, and love in the face of unimaginable fear, placing herself between danger and those she loved.

"She will always be remembered not for the violence inflicted upon her, but for her bravery, her protective instinct, and the ultimate sacrifice she made for others.

"We ask for privacy at this deeply difficult time as we mourn our tragic loss. Joanne will always be in our memories, our thoughts, and our hearts.

"We love you forever, sweetheart. Mummy, I miss you and love you so much."

An inquest hearing at Avon Coroner's Court has been listed for 11 August 2026.

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