Three arrested over 'cannabis farm' house explosion that killed boy and man

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Three men have been arrested on suspicion of drug offences and manslaughter charges after a fatal explosion in Newcastle in October that killed a boy and a man.

The eruption tore through six flats on Violent Close, in Benwell, in the early hours of Wednesday, October 16. Archie York, seven, died at the scene, while the body of Jason Laws, 35, was later discovered under debris. Six others were injured in the explosion, reports the Mirror.

Now, police have confirmed three men - two in their 30s and one in his 50s - have been arrested on suspicion of two counts of manslaughter, and the production of a Class B drug, namely cannabis. Both remain in custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: "This has been a truly tragic incident which resulted in the loss of two lives. As a result of our ongoing enquiries, three men have today been arrested in connection with the explosion.

"Our investigation will remain ongoing as we seek to provide answers to what has happened. We would continue to ask people to avoid speculation surrounding this incident both online and in the community.

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"Anyone with any information which could assist our enquiries should contact us as soon as possible if they have not already done so. We would also like to thank people for their continued support and cooperation."

Last month, Archie’s devastated parents Katherine and Robbie paid tribute to their son. They said: “Archie was not only our son but our best friend.

“He lit up every room he went in, whether that was with his cheeky smile he was known for or some of his cheeky words. We are so broken as a family but Archie will live on in his baby brother Finley who is the spitting image of him. He might have been small but he had a heart of gold, everyone loved him.

“We would also like to thank everyone who shared their love with Archie at his balloon release, everyone did him proud. As a whole we are still wanting to wake up from this nightmare but Archie knows he will be in our hearts forever and always. We love you Archie York."

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