Investigations into the death of a 68-year-old woman who was mauled to death in an Essex home have continued this morning after the victim’s family claimed there were “eight XL Bullies” in the home at the time.
Esther Martin had been visiting her 11-year-old grandson at a home in Jaywick when she was attacked. According to reports, there were two adult XL Bullies in the property, as well as six puppies.
The dogs’ owner was named locally as Esther’s son-in-law Ashley Warren, a rap artist calling himself Wyless Man. Esther’s 11-year-old grandson ran from the house screaming when the adult dogs attacked Esther as she tried to stop the puppies from fighting.
Neighbours rushed to help but the beloved grandmother died at the scene. Her daughter Kelly Fretwell, 46, said: “My nephew witnessed it and could have been killed too.”
Esther’s daughter told how Ashley Warren shrugged off warnings that the dogs were dangerous, saying: “Nobody can tell me what to do with my dogs.”
Specially trained officers are continuing to support Esther’s family and enquiries will continue throughout the week.
A 39 year-old man arrested on suspicion of dangerous dog offences has been released on conditional bail until 5 March.
Acting Detective Superintendent Stuart Truss said: “We’re making good progress in our investigation into Esther’s death. It is an investigation with a number of complexities, but we are determined to give Esther’s family the answers they need.
“We are working with experts to confirm the breed of the dogs. This may take some days but it’s really important we get it right.
“I would ask people not to speculate about this element – we will establish the facts and we will keep the community in Jaywick updated.”
Kelly Fretwell, 46, said: “There could have been two victims, my nephew has not only lost his mum and grandmother but he had to witness all this violence. He could have been killed as well.”
In November, Ashley Warren posted an ad selling XL Bully puppies at £500 each. Esther, from Woodford Green, East London, was visiting the house on Saturday at around 4pm when the dogs turned.
Chief Supt Glen Pavelin praised the neighbours’ courage. He said: “I would like to thank local people who tried to get into the house to help Esther Martin. You should be proud.”
He also praised police officers who arrived “within minutes” of receiving reports of the attack and went into the house to destroy the animals.
He said: “When six police officers entered the house, their priority was, as always, to keep their community safe. Their unflinching bravery and professionalism ensured that there is no ongoing threat to the people of Essex. Both dogs were destroyed inside the house.”
Chief Supt Pavelin declined to comment on the breed of the dogs. He said: “I know there is speculation about the breed involved and we are working with experts to establish this.”
