- By Louise Parry, Richard Knights and Nicola Haseler
- BBC News, Essex
Image source, Family Handout
Esther Martin’s family says she was the victim of an XL bully dog attack in Jaywick, Essex
A woman killed in an attack by dogs – thought to be XL bullies – had been visiting her grandson for the weekend.
Esther Martin, 68, was found seriously injured in Jaywick, near Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, on Saturday afternoon.
A 39-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous dog offences and the animals have been destroyed.
Police said they believed the great-grandmother had been attacked by two dogs, which her daughter said were the banned breed.
Detectives said they were waiting for the breed to be confirmed by experts.
Ms Martin’s daughter Sonia Martin, 47, said her mother had been visiting her 11-year-old grandson.
She said the 68-year-old, who came from Woodford Green in London, was a grandmother to eight children and great-grandmother of three.
Image source, Ed Schooling
Crowds watched as a helicopter took off from the Jaywick Sands beach
People gathered on Saturday evening as several police cars, an ambulance and a helicopter were seen in the area.
The force said specialist officers ensured the scene was safe and there was no risk to the wider public but there would be a “significant police presence” on Sunday.
Ch Supt Glen Pavelin said: “This incident will be a huge shock to the community and I understand their concerns.
“We’ll have officers in the area throughout today so please come and speak to them if you have any information or are worried.”
Image source, Richard Knights/BBC
Officers said there would be a “significant police presence” in the seaside village following the incident
He added: “My thoughts, and those of our officers and staff, are with the family of the woman who died yesterday.
“Experienced detectives are leading the investigation to identify exactly what has happened.”
He appealed for anyone with information to get in touch or speak to officers at the scene.
What are XL bully dogs and what is the law?
The government described them as large dogs “with a muscular body and blocky head, suggesting great strength and power for [their] size”.
In England and Wales, the breed has been added to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. It means breeding, selling or abandoning them is illegal.
To get a Certificate of Exemption, allowing owners to keep their XL bullies, they need to get insurance, neuter their dog, and pay a fee of £92.40.
American XL bully dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public.
Scotland has also announced a ban, which will come into force later in the year.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
