Jaywick dog attack: Everything we know as woman dead

Here is everything we know about the incident.

Where and when did the dog attack happen?

Emergency services, including the air ambulance, were called to Hillman Avenue in Jaywick, near Clacton, at about 4pm on Saturday. 

Esther Martin died after a dog attack in Jaywick (Image: SWNS)

On arrival, officers found a woman had been seriously injured as a result of the attack.

She was later pronounced dead at the scene, a spokesman for Essex Police confirmed. 

Chief Superintendent Glen Pavelin, of Essex Police, confirmed during a press conference that the victim was 68-year-old Esther Martin, a grandmother of eight.

Have any arrests been made?

Ch Spt Pavelin said officers arrived at the scene within minutes of the call. 

Police cordon in Jaywick (Image: PA)

A 39-year-old man from Jaywick was subsequently arrested on suspicion of dangerous dog offences.

What has happened to the dogs?

Essex Police has confirmed that the two dogs have been destroyed. 

What have police said about the dog attack?

In a press conference outside Clacton Police Station, Ch Spt Pavelin said: "I want to express my condolences to her family and friends, and we have specially trained officers supporting them.

"We believe Esther had been attacked by two dogs inside the house.

"When Essex Police officers entered the house their priority was - as always - to keep the community safe.

"Their unflinching bravery and professionalism ensured that there is no ongoing threat to the people of Essex as a result of this incident. Both dogs were destroyed inside the house.

"I repeat: thanks to their swift actions, I can reassure the community in Jaywick that there is no ongoing risk to them posed by this incident.

"I would also like to thank the local people who had tried to get into the house to help Esther. Martin. You should be proud.

Location of dog attack in Jaywick (Image: PA)

"If anyone has any information or concerns, please come and speak to one of our officers. They will be pleased to help you.

"It’s understandable that people will have questions. If you have specific concerns about any animal that might be a risk to you or to others, you should contact us immediately.

"Finally, our thoughts remain with everyone affected by what has happened. I have seen the flowers laid down for Esther Martin as have my officers. I would like to thank all those who have come together to pay tribute to her."

What breed of dogs were involved?

According to media reports, the incident is thought to have involved two XL bully-type dogs.

During the press conference, Ch Spt Pavelin said police are working with experts to confirm the breed of the dogs.

He added: "I know there’s speculation about the breed of the dogs involved.

"We are working with experts to establish this and I won’t say anything further on this today.

"I would also ask you not to speculate. We will establish the facts and we will keep the community in Jaywick updated."

Anyone with information can contact Essex Police on 101, quoting incident number 723 of February 3.