Police have confirmed that the two dogs that attacked and killed Esther Martin, a 68-year-old woman in Essex, were XL bullies. The incident occurred while Martin was visiting her grandson in Jaywick, near Clacton-on-Sea. Essex Police reported that post-mortem examinations carried out on the dogs, which have since been destroyed, confirmed their breed.
Sonia Martin, the victim’s daughter, had previously spoken to the BBC about the attack and claimed that the dogs’ owner had instructed her mother to intervene with a broom when puppies began fighting. It is believed that she was attacked inside the Hillman Avenue property. A 39-year-old man named Ashley Warren has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous dog offences and released on police bail until March.
XL bully dogs are a category of the American bully breed, which has been added to England and Wales’ list of banned dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Breeding, selling or abandoning these dogs is now illegal. Certificates of Exemption can no longer be acquired, and the government’s guidance states that owners without a certificate should inform their local police.
Residents of the coastal village of Jaywick have expressed their shock and the victim’s family has called for justice. The investigation continues, and police have reminded dog owners of their responsibility to ensure their pets are under control at all times.
Ch Supt Stuart Weaver praised the “unflinching bravery and professionalism” of the officers who attended and thanked members of the public who attempted to save Esther Martin’s life
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