Jaywick XL bully owner's arrogance killed our mum, say daughters
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A woman named Esther Martin was tragically killed by two XL bully dogs in Essex while she was staying at her son-in-law’s home. The incident occurred just days after the UK banned XL bullies, with authorities attributing her death to the owner's negligence for not rehoming the dogs despite knowing the ban was imminent. Her daughters expressed their grief and anger towards the owner, Ashley Warren, who faces prosecution under the new law.
Esther, described as a beloved mother and grandmother known for her vibrant personality, had traveled to assist Warren with his aggressive dogs while he attended a music video shoot in London. The attack happened despite the presence of multiple children in the house, with CCTV footage capturing the chaos as the dogs mauled Esther, leading to fatal injuries.
Warren’s lack of responsibility, including failing to secure an exemption for the banned XL bullies, has been highlighted by Martin’s daughters as contributing factors in their mother’s death. The case underscores the importance of adhering to pet safety laws and responsible ownership. As the first person prosecuted under the XL bully ban, Warren’s trial serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of non-compliance with animal regulation policies.
This incident not only highlights the consequences of neglecting legal obligations regarding dangerous breeds but also draws attention to the broader implications for public safety and pet ownership standards. The case has sparked discussions about the need for stricter enforcement of dog breed regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026