A mother has been killed in a powerful explosion at her home in Bristol, with reports claiming the blast was caused by a grenade allegedly detonated by her ex-partner, who also died in the incident.
The explosion rocked a quiet residential street in Frenchay on Sunday at around 6.30am, also leaving the man dead at the scene. Emergency services, including firefighters, police officers and bomb disposal experts, rushed to the area following the blast.
Neighbours said they felt their homes shake from the impact, describing the explosion as sounding like a large crash or gas-related incident. One resident, carpenter Wayne Smith, said he believed a grenade had been used and detonated at the property’s entrance.
He added that the force of the blast was strong enough to shake nearby houses, while armed and specialist units quickly cordoned off the area as residents were evacuated for safety.
It has been reported that the woman had recently moved into the terraced home, allegedly in an attempt to escape a previous abusive relationship. Friends said she had only recently expressed relief at feeling safe again.
The victim’s son and two other family members sustained minor injuries but have since been discharged from hospital, according to reports.
Tributes have poured in for the woman, who was described by friends as kind-hearted and well-loved, with one calling her “the most amazing woman” they had ever known.
Police have not yet officially confirmed the cause of the explosion. However, officers have carried out enquiries at a nearby property in Speedwell believed to be linked to the deceased man. Authorities have also stated that the incident is not being treated as a terrorist-related attack.
