Jaywick dog attack that killed Grandmother confirmed to be XL Bullies
68-year-old Esther Martin died after the attack on Saturday afternoon
Last updated 9th Feb 2024
Essex Police have confirmed the fatal dogs which launched an attack in Jaywick last Saturday were XL Bullies.
68-year-old Esther Martin died at the scene at a home in Hillman Avenue on February 3rd.
The two dogs which attacked Ms Martin were destroyed at the scene.
In a new statement from police, they say it was important to establish the facts before confirming the dog breed, despite speculation from the public.
The investigation is said to be making "good progress", with a post-mortem of the dogs confirming their breed.
"it was really important we got that information right and established the facts."
Chief Superintendent Stuart Weaver said:
“I know there has been a huge amount of speculation about the breed and type of dog involved here, but it was really important we got that information right and established the facts.
“We owe it to Esther and her family to ensure we are thorough, professional and, above all, fair.
“XL Bully is not a breed of dog in itself, but a sub-category of the American Bully and identifying categories of a breed can be a complex process.
“It requires a police-trained dog expert to examine the physical features of the dog against specific measurements, in line with the guidelines published by the Government.
“A forensic post-mortem was also carried out by a veterinary scientist and through this combination it was confirmed that the dogs were XL Bullies.
“A team of experienced detectives are continuing their investigation into Esther’s death and continue to make good progress.
“They are committed to getting the answers her family need about what happened and why.
“Specially trained family liaison officers are also continuing to support them.”
Chief Superintendent Weaver went on to thank the members of the public once again, who tried their best to help Esther before police arrived, and say their actions are a "reflection of the values of the community of Jaywick."