A fatal explosion in Bristol that claimed two lives was caused by a grenade detonated by a man at the home of his ex-partner. The incident occurred on Sterncourt Road early Sunday morning, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Details of the Incident
Police were called to a domestic disturbance at the address just moments before the blast. Neighbors reported that the female victim had recently moved to the terraced house to escape her ex-partner. Wayne Smith, 58, a local resident, told The Sun: 'He turned up at her house with a grenade and detonated it on the doorstep, killing both of them.'
Victim and Community Response
The woman, who has not been officially named, is believed to have worked at a nearby tanning salon. Friends and neighbors have begun paying tribute to her. Superintendent Matt Ebbs stated: 'A woman and a man have died at the address, and we are treating the explosion as suspicious. Their families have been updated and are being supported by specially trained officers. Our thoughts are very much with them.'
Evacuation and Safety Measures
Following the explosion, bomb disposal units conducted thorough checks to ensure no unexploded ordnance remained in the area. Over 70 residents were evacuated to a Harvester pub before being relocated to a community centre. A pub worker told Metro: 'Obviously, they were very confused and worried because there was a lot of speculation, but they seemed to be in good spirits.'
Witness Accounts
One witness reported hearing a loud bang around 6:30 am and went to investigate, only to be told to 'get inside' by armed police. Another resident, who helped elderly neighbors evacuate, said: 'We have been told to stay in the Harvester until further notice. We may not be able to go home tonight.' A third witness claimed to see smoke from a house, telling BristolLive: 'There were two or three unmarked police cars, a number of ambulances and police vehicles, and now the bomb squad is there.'
Investigation Status
Police have confirmed they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident and are not treating it as a suspected terrorist event. The neighborhood has been declared safe, and investigations continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
