Police this afternoon (4) said brave local people tried to fight their way into the home where Esther Martin was mauled to death by two dogs.<br /><br />Speaking at a press conference, Essex Police chief superintendent Glen Pavelin commended the "unflinching bravery" of the officers who got in.<br /><br />But he said despite officers arriving "within minutes" of receiving reports of the attack, Esther died at the scene.<br /><br />He said: "Yesterday, we were called to a house in Hillman Avenue in Jaywick after receiving reports of a woman injured there.<br /><br />"Our officers arrived within minutes but, sadly, a 68-year-old woman died at the scene. Although she has not been formally identified, Essex Police can name her as Esther Martin.<br /><br />"I want to express my condolences to her family and friends, and we have specially trained officers supporting them.<br /><br />"Our thoughts remain with everyone affected."<br /><br />Chief Supt Glen Pavelin said officers arrived within "minutes" of reports of the attack, but that "sadly" the 68-year-old victim died at the scene.<br /><br />He said that although the victim has not been formally identified, the force has confirmed Ether Martin is the victim.<br /><br />"I want to express my condolences to her family and friends," he said.<br /><br />He added: "We believe Esther has been attacked by two dogs inside the house.<br /><br />"When Essex Police officers entered the house, their priority was - as always - to keep their community safe.<br /><br />"Their unflinching bravery and professionalism ensure that there is no ongoing threat to the people of Essex.<br /><br />"Both dogs were destroyed inside the house.<br /><br />"I would like to thank local people who tried to get into the house to help Esther - you should be proud."<br /><br />He said Esther and the arrested man were "of the same family" and added: "The breed of the dogs cannot be confirmed but we are working with experts to identify the breed of the dogs.”
