In the early hours of a quiet Sunday morning in Bristol, one mother’s split-second decision turned a domestic nightmare into an act of pure heroism — and ultimate sacrifice. Joanne “Jo” Shaw, just 35, lost her life in a deliberate explosion, but not before ensuring her young son was safe from the blast that claimed her and her ex-partner.

The tragedy unfolded around 6:30am on Sterncourt Road in Frenchay, a suburban area of Bristol. Ryan Kelly, 41, Jo’s ex-partner with a serious criminal past, forced his way into the family home where Jo was staying with her parents. Armed officers were already en route following reports of a domestic incident when the explosive device detonated inside the property.

Neighbours described hearing Jo shouting “go away, go away” moments before a massive boom shook doors and windows across the street. In those critical seconds, Jo instructed her young son to go outside and play on the trampoline in the garden — a simple but life-saving command that removed him from the immediate danger zone. The child, along with two other family members, escaped with only minor injuries and has since been discharged from hospital.

Tragically, both Jo and Kelly died in the blast. The explosion was so powerful it rocked the terraced houses nearby. Emergency services, including the British Army’s bomb disposal experts, rushed to the scene. Forensic officers combed the area while residents were evacuated for safety. Avon and Somerset Police are treating Jo’s death as a homicide and the entire incident as suspicious and deliberate.

Jo’s bravery has been hailed across the community. A close friend, Sammi Lee, who knew her for over 20 years, said: “Jo is a hero. When Ryan broke into the house she got her son out of the way — she got him out of the house and onto the trampoline so he was safe.” Neighbours echoed the sentiment, calling her a wonderful woman who would do anything for others. One local said the community is “absolutely devastated” by the loss of such a kind and loving mother.

Ryan Kelly’s violent history added a dark layer to the tragedy. In 2015, he was jailed for five years for his role in a “Breaking Bad”-style drugs gang that planned to produce crystal meth. He had supplied cocaine as part of a larger operation run even from prison. Jo had reportedly moved into her parents’ home to escape his abusive behaviour, seeking safety after their relationship ended. Friends said she had sounded “so happy” in the weeks before, finally feeling free.

The couple had a documented history of domestic incidents, which prompted police to refer the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Officers confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the deaths, as the investigation remains in its early stages. They have also searched another property in Speedwell, Bristol, linked to Kelly.

Tributes have poured in for Jo, who worked at a tanning salon and was remembered as “the most amazing woman” by those who knew her. Superintendent Matt Ebbs of Avon and Somerset Police expressed the force’s shock: “We know people will be shocked and upset to learn of the horrendous events… Jo’s death has been officially recorded as a homicide.” He urged the public to respect the family’s privacy as specialist officers support them through their grief.

This heartbreaking case has reignited conversations about domestic violence and the hidden dangers faced by women trying to leave abusive relationships. Despite Jo’s efforts to create distance, Kelly’s actions ended in devastation for everyone involved — most painfully for the young son who lost his mother in such a violent way. The child’s rescue from the blast stands as a final testament to a mother’s instinct to protect above all else.

Neighbour Wayne Smith recalled feeling the house shake: “At first I thought it was a gas explosion… He’s turned up at her house with a grenade and detonated it.” The use of what police described as an “explosive device” — allegedly a grenade — shocked the quiet neighbourhood and required army ordnance teams to secure the scene.

Jo’s story is one of courage in the face of terror. In her final moments, instead of fleeing for her own safety, she prioritised her child’s life. That selfless act has ensured her son will grow up knowing his mother loved him enough to save him, even at the cost of her own life. As the investigation continues and the community mourns, Jo Shaw’s legacy remains that of a hero whose quick thinking turned potential triple tragedy into a story of survival amid loss.

The pain for her family is unimaginable — a mother, daughter, and friend gone too soon in an explosion that should never have happened. Yet in the midst of sorrow, her bravery shines as a powerful reminder of maternal love and the urgent need for better protections against domestic abuse. Bristol and beyond continue to send love and support to those left behind, honouring a woman who gave everything for her child.