Parents 'broken' after seven-year-old son who 'lit up every room' killed in house explosion

The devastated parents of a seven-year-old boy who "lit up every room" have paid an emotional tribute after he died in a house explosion. Archie York was tragically killed when two homes exploded in Newcastle on Wednesday, October 16.

Emergency services rushed to the scene in Violet Close. But, sadly, it was later confirmed that the schoolboy had died during the blast.

Distraught parents, Katherine and Robbie, said Archie was "not only our son" but also their "best friend". In an emotional statement, they said: "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.

Read more: Moment Peaky Blinders filming starts at Birmingham’s Gas Street Basin with big star spotted

“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."

The probe into the cause of the explosion was ongoing today. Police continue to work alongside colleagues from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

Supt Darren Adams of Northumbria Police said: “Our thoughts are very much with Archie’s loved ones at this devastating time. He has lost his life in truly tragic circumstances, and we would ask everyone to respect his family’s privacy.”