Heartbroken family pay tribute to ‘heroic’ mum who made ‘ultimate sacrifice’ before deadly ‘grenade’ attack by thug ex
THE family of a mother killed in an explosion at a house in Bristol have praised her bravery after she saved her child from the blast.
Joanne Shaw, 35, died on May 3 alongside her ex-partner Ryan Kelly, 41, who allegedly detonated a grenade on her parents’ doorstep.
Kelly – who was previously jailed for his role in a “Breaking Bad” drug gang – “forced entry” into the property before an “explosive device” was set off deliberately inside the home, cops said.
Heroic Jo is believed to have instructed her young child to go outside and play on a trampoline before the deadly detonation went off.
Joanne’s family said she put “herself between danger and those she loved” in the “ultimate sacrifice”.
They added that Jo “brought warmth, kindness, and strength into the lives of countless people” and she will “be missed more than words can ever express”.
They said that Jo’s child has “suffered the unimaginable loss” and described Joanne’s love for them as “boundless”.
Joanne was well known in the community for her “bubbly, friendly personality” and “infectious laugh”.
Her loved ones added: “She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will never be forgotten.
“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.
They continued: “We love you forever, sweetheart. Mummy, I miss you and love you so much.”
Armed officers were already on their way to the property following reports of a “domestic-related incident” when the explosion went off.
Emergency services then scrambled to the scene and first responders were seen giving Jo CPR. They were forced to leave the area when explosive ordnance disposal teams arrived.
It is thought Jo’s son and two other family members were hospitalised for minor injuries – they have all since been discharged.
The force said Jo and Kelly had a history of domestic incidents known to officers and has referred itself to the police watchdog over the incident.
Jo’s family have requested that their privacy is respected during such a difficult time.
Avon and Somerset Police said Joanne’s death is being treated as deliberate and they have launched a homicide inquiry.
Kelly was previously jailed for five years after he supplied cocaine as part of a “Breaking Bad” drugs gang.
