Woman Killed in Dog Attack while Visiting Grandson

A tragic incident unfolded in Jaywick, near Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, as a woman lost her life in a horrifying dog attack. Esther Martin, 68, had been visiting her grandson over the weekend when the incident occurred. The dogs involved in the attack are suspected to be XL bullies, a banned breed in the UK. A 39-year-old man from the village has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous dog offences. Authorities have already destroyed the animals, awaiting confirmation of their breed by experts.

Sonia Martin, Esther’s daughter, revealed that her mother had been spending time with her 11-year-old grandson. She described Esther, who hailed from Woodford Green in London, as a devoted grandmother to eight children and a great-grandmother to three. The shocking incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon, with onlookers witnessing several emergency vehicles rushing to the scene.

Police assured the community that the area was safe and that there was no immediate danger to the public. Nevertheless, a significant police presence remained on-site as the investigation continued. The Chief Superintendent, Glen Pavelin, expressed sympathy for the victim’s family and urged anyone with information to come forward. He assured the community that experienced detectives were leading the investigation to determine the exact details of the incident.

XL bullies, also referred to as American XL bully dogs, are large dogs characterized by their muscular bodies and blocky heads. These breeds suggest strength and power for their size. In England and Wales, XL bullies are classified as a banned breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. This makes breeding, selling, or abandoning them illegal. To keep an XL bully legally, owners must obtain a Certificate of Exemption, which requires insurance, neutering of the dog, and a fee of £92.40. Scotland has also announced a ban on this breed, to be implemented later this year.

The tragic loss of life due to a dog attack has left the community in shock. Police urged anyone with information or concerns to approach the officers present on-site or to contact them directly. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of Esther Martin, a beloved grandmother and great-grandmother.