Superintendent Darren Adams of Northumbria Police expressed his sorrow over the incident, describing the boy’s death as “truly devastating” and extended condolences to his family and friends.Eyewitness Accounts and Evacuations
Local residents reported being awakened by a loud bang and a bright flash, followed by the acrid smell of smoke. One witness told BBC Radio Newcastle:“There was a big flash, and I thought, ‘Is this an explosion or a car accident?’ Then I smelled smoke, and we rushed outside. It’s shocking because this area is full of families and children.”Authorities immediately evacuated nearby residents to a rest center run by Red Cross volunteers. Essential supplies, including food and phone chargers, were provided. The West End Women and Girls Centre also offered a safe space with food and warmth to anyone displaced by the explosion.Scene of Destruction and Emergency Response
The explosion leveled three terrace houses and affected six flats, with two suffering the worst damage. Firefighters, assisted by search dogs, have been sifting through the rubble to ensure no one else is trapped.Lynsey McVay, Assistant Chief Fire Officer of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue, confirmed that all fires were extinguished but noted that crews continue their search efforts. “Our specialist dog unit remains on site to aid in the investigation,” she said.Northern Gas Networks sent engineers to the area, but the cause of the explosion remains unknown. Investigators are working diligently to determine what led to the deadly blast.Safety Measures and Support for Residents
As a precaution, police have established a no-fly zone with a 200-meter radius over the blast site. Newcastle City Council urged residents to stay indoors and keep their windows shut due to smoke in the area.Council officials confirmed that the affected house was part of their housing stock, with housing officers on the ground assisting displaced families. Temporary hotel accommodations are being arranged for those who cannot return to their homes. Council Leader Karen Kilgour emphasized the importance of resident safety, saying, “Our priority is supporting those affected in every way possible.”Community Responds to Heartbreaking Loss
The explosion has left the neighborhood reeling, with many expressing shock and grief. Superintendent Adams praised the community spirit, adding, “I know the people of Elswick, Benwell, and the wider region will rally around the affected family and provide support during this difficult time.”Investigation Ongoing
While emergency responders continue to search the area, authorities are urging the public to avoid the vicinity until further notice. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is still underway.
Local residents reported being awakened by a loud bang and a bright flash, followed by the acrid smell of smoke. One witness told BBC Radio Newcastle:“There was a big flash, and I thought, ‘Is this an explosion or a car accident?’ Then I smelled smoke, and we rushed outside. It’s shocking because this area is full of families and children.”Authorities immediately evacuated nearby residents to a rest center run by Red Cross volunteers. Essential supplies, including food and phone chargers, were provided. The West End Women and Girls Centre also offered a safe space with food and warmth to anyone displaced by the explosion.Scene of Destruction and Emergency Response
The explosion leveled three terrace houses and affected six flats, with two suffering the worst damage. Firefighters, assisted by search dogs, have been sifting through the rubble to ensure no one else is trapped.Lynsey McVay, Assistant Chief Fire Officer of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue, confirmed that all fires were extinguished but noted that crews continue their search efforts. “Our specialist dog unit remains on site to aid in the investigation,” she said.Northern Gas Networks sent engineers to the area, but the cause of the explosion remains unknown. Investigators are working diligently to determine what led to the deadly blast.Safety Measures and Support for Residents
As a precaution, police have established a no-fly zone with a 200-meter radius over the blast site. Newcastle City Council urged residents to stay indoors and keep their windows shut due to smoke in the area.Council officials confirmed that the affected house was part of their housing stock, with housing officers on the ground assisting displaced families. Temporary hotel accommodations are being arranged for those who cannot return to their homes. Council Leader Karen Kilgour emphasized the importance of resident safety, saying, “Our priority is supporting those affected in every way possible.”Community Responds to Heartbreaking Loss
The explosion has left the neighborhood reeling, with many expressing shock and grief. Superintendent Adams praised the community spirit, adding, “I know the people of Elswick, Benwell, and the wider region will rally around the affected family and provide support during this difficult time.”Investigation Ongoing
While emergency responders continue to search the area, authorities are urging the public to avoid the vicinity until further notice. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is still underway.