Mum killed in explosion made 'ultimate sacrifice'

The family of a mother who was killed after her ex-partner forced his way into the house she was in with explosives say she made the "ultimate sacrifice" by placing herself "between danger and those she loved".

Joanne Shaw, 35, died in a home explosion in Frenchay, Bristol, on Sunday.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed it was treating the blast as deliberate and had recorded Shaw's death as a homicide, although officers were not looking for anyone else. Shaw's ex-partner Ryan Kelly, 41, also died in the explosion.

Shaw's family said her actions on the day of her death were "nothing short of heroic", after she saved her child from harm by sending them outside "in the face of unimaginable fear".

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

"Her child has suffered the unimaginable loss of their mummy in this tragedy," Shaw's family added.

Police said they first received a call about a domestic incident from a person inside the Sterncourt Road property at 06:17. The caller said a man who they knew had forced entry into the house.

At around 06:30, the caller said the intruder was believed to be in possession of an explosive device. The fatal blast occurred about two minutes later, police said.

Three other people, including a child, were treated for minor injuries.

In a statement, the family recalled Shaw's "infectious laugh" which they said could light up a room, adding she loved meeting new people, sharing advice, and forming "eternal friendships".

"She welcomed everyone into her life with open arms and the biggest heart," they said.

The family statement said Shaw would "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".

"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 heart," the family said.

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

Avon and Somerset Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct following the incident.

The mandatory referral to the police watchdog is due to previous police contact with the victim prior to Sunday, relating to other reported domestic incidents.

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