Benwell explosion: Three held on suspicion of manslaughter and cannabis production over fatal Newcastle blast
by Sophie Doughty · ChronicleLiveThree men are today being questioned on suspicion of manslaughter after the tragic explosion in Benwell which claimed two lives.
Seven-year-old Archie York and Jason Laws, 35, were killed in the blast, which ripped through homes on Violet Close, in Benwell, Newcastle, three weeks ago.
Now Northumbria Police has arrested three suspects over the incident. The men, two in their 30s and one in his 50s, are today being questioned on suspicion of two counts of manslaughter, and production of cannabis.
Det Chief Insp Katie Smith, who is leading the investigation for 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.
“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.”
Anyone with information should call Northumbria Police quoting log number NP-20241016-0028.
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