City council chief calls on public not to speculate on causes of devastating Benwell explosion
The tragic incident on Wednesday claimed the lives of two people
by James Robinson · ChronicleLiveThe chief executive of Newcastle City Council has called on the public not to speculate on the cause of an explosion at a home in the Benwell area of the city that claimed the lives of two people - including a seven-year-old boy.
Pam Smith confirmed the council was working alongside Northumbria Police and other regulators to assist in their investigations. The council did not comment on reports it had received complaints about a leaking boiler at the property and instead urged people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The victims of the tragic incident have been named locally as seven-year-old Archie York and Jason Laws. Emergency services were called to a house explosion on Violet Drive in Benwell shortly before 12.45am on Wednesday morning - Tyne and Wear Fire Service were on the scene within five minutes and quickly declared a major incident.
Ms Smith said: "Firstly, I want to send my sincerest sympathies to the loved ones of the two people who have tragically lost their lives. My thoughts are with their friends and families at this incredibly difficult time.
“The police and other regulators are conducting an investigation into this incident, and it is important they are able to investigate without speculation into the circumstances that led to Wednesday morning’s tragic events. We are providing our full support and assistance to their investigation which will naturally take some time to conclude.
“My thoughts also go to the dozens of people who have been evacuated from their homes, and we are working tirelessly to meet the needs of all residents that have been affected. I have spoken with some residents who have clearly been significantly impacted, as has the wider community in our city, and I am ensuring that the important work to support those affected, continues.”
Elsewhere, the Health and Safety Executive has denied reports it has opened a formal investigation into the incident at this stage. However, it has been confirmed that discussions are ongoing.
A spokesman for the HSE said: "We are liaising with the relevant authorities following this incident. No decision has yet been made as to whether we will open a formal investigation."
Six people were taken to hospital following the explosion. Police have confirmed a man in his 30s is still in hospital in a critical but stable condition, while five others - a child and four adults - have been discharged.
Police have confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the explosion remains ongoing, warning that cordons are expected to be in place for some time. Superintendent Darren Adams said: "We are working with our partners as our investigation continues. For a number of reasons this is complex and time consuming, not least due to the level of damage which has been caused.
"As always, we would ask people not to speculate about what has happened both online and within the community. As we have previously made clear and I would reiterate now, we are committed to providing answers to what has happened. I would like to thank the community for their continued support and cooperation at this incredibly tragic time."
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