Emergency services remain at the scene in Sterncourt Road, Bristol, following a devastating explosion early Sunday morning that claimed the lives of a man and his former partner. Police have confirmed that Ryan Kelly, 41, forced his way into the house carrying an explosive device, leading to a blast that killed him and 35-year-old Jo Shaw.
Details of the Incident
Avon and Somerset Police received a call from another person inside the house at 6.17am on Sunday, reporting a domestic-related incident. At approximately 6.30am, the caller informed police that the man might be in possession of an explosive device. Two minutes later, the explosion occurred. Three other individuals, including the caller, sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene but did not require hospitalization.
Police Investigation
Supt Matt Ebbs stated: “We know people will be shocked and upset to learn of the horrendous events that happened on Sunday morning. Jo’s death has been officially recorded as a homicide based on the information known to us at this time. We are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.” He added that specially trained officers are supporting the devastated family.
The force has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) because previous domestic incidents had been reported to them prior to Sunday. The police emphasized that the explosion is not believed to be terrorism-related, though it is considered deliberate.
Response and Evacuations
First officers arrived at the property in Sterncourt Road, Frenchay, just two minutes after the blast, followed by fire and ambulance services. Police worked with Bristol City Council to evacuate neighboring properties as a precaution and set up a temporary rest center. Searches by the army’s explosive ordnance disposal team and specialist police officers ensured the area was safe before the cordon was reduced on Sunday night, allowing almost all residents to return home.
A search of a separate address in Speedwell linked to Kelly concluded over the bank holiday weekend without requiring evacuations.
Ongoing Inquiries
Ebbs added: “Police activity continues to be carried out at the property in Sterncourt Road and we expect this will take several days to be completed. 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. As previously stated, we believe the cause of the explosion to be deliberate. Analysis work of the explosive device has not yet been completed.”
All findings will be shared with the coroner to determine the official cause of death.
Support Resources
In the UK, the national domestic abuse helpline is available at 0808 2000 247, or visit Women’s Aid. In the US, the domestic violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). In Australia, the national family violence counselling service can be reached at 1800 737 732. Other international helplines are available via www.befrienders.org.
This article was amended on 6 May 2026 to correct the location of the explosion from Speedwell to Frenchay.
