Full Breakdown
Bristol House Explosion: Two Dead, Police Call It Homicide
5/6/2026, 11:52:42 AM
Explosion at Sterncourt Road, Bristol
Early on 4 May 2026, a blast tore through a terraced house on Sterncourt Road in Frenchay, Bristol. Jo Shaw, 35, and her former partner Ryan Kelly, 41, were killed. Three other occupants – a man, a woman and a child – suffered minor injuries and were released from hospital. Around 70 neighbours were temporarily evacuated.
Background and Perpetrator
Police records show earlier domestic-related calls to the address, prompting a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Kelly had a 2015 conviction for conspiracy to supply cocaine as a foot soldier in a crystal-meth gang, receiving a five-year sentence. Neighbours said Shaw had moved into her parents’ house to escape Kelly’s alleged harassment.
Timeline
Police received a 06:17 call reporting a domestic incident; at 06:30 the caller said the intruder had an explosive device; the blast occurred at 06:32; officers arrived at 06:34, followed by fire, ambulance and bomb-disposal teams; cordons were lifted later that evening.
Impact and Police Response
The blast killed Shaw and Kelly, injured three others and displaced about 70 neighbours. Avon and Somerset Police, with Bristol City Council, set up a rest centre and deployed bomb-disposal experts, stating no wider public risk.
Official Police Position
Police recorded Shaw’s death as homicide. Superintendent Matt Ebbs said the explosion was “deliberate,” not terrorism-related, and that detectives are not seeking any other suspect. Specially-trained officers are supporting the families. The case was referred to the IOPC due to earlier domestic-incident contacts.
Oversight Concerns
The IOPC referral highlights scrutiny of police handling of prior domestic-violence calls, prompting calls for a review of response protocols.
Eyewitness Accounts
Neighbour Stuart Blanchard heard shouting, then a “bang” that shook his door, initially thinking a gas explosion. He said Kelly arrived “in a mental state.” Another resident, Wayne Smith, said Kelly entered with a “grenade” that detonated on the doorstep.
Conflicting Details
Sources differ on the device, calling it an “explosive device” or a “hand grenade.” Police have not finished analysis, and a coroner’s inquest will determine the exact cause of death. No terrorist motive has been found.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We know everyone’s thoughts and sympathies will be with her devastated family.” — Superintendent Matt Ebbs
- “Show more “As previously stated, we believe the cause of the explosion to be deliberate.” — Superintendent Matt Ebbs
- “He added: "We would like to reassure the public there is not believed to be any wider risk to safety and this is not being treated as terrorism-related.” — Superintendent Matt Ebbs
- “We are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.” — Superintendent Matt Ebbs
Next Steps
Forensic analysis continues and the case will go to the coroner. Police will remain on site for several days while the IOPC review proceeds. Authorities ask the public to respect the families’ privacy.
