A 31-year-old man remains critically ill in hospital this afternoon following a suspected gas explosion at a home in Evesham, Worcestershire, yesterday.
A further two people, a man and a woman, were also injured at the address and a man from a neighbouring property was taken to hospital. Thankfully, the injuries of these three individuals are not believed to be life threatening and they have since been released from hospital.
The building suffered extensive damage and, to ensure the safety of the public, 10 neighbouring homes were evacuated, and the gas supply had to be temporarily cut off from 35 homes.
Superintendent Nigel Webster, who led the police response last night, said; “This was, of course, a devastating incident and our thoughts are with those injured, their families and the local residents.
“The community pulled together last night to support each other and we’d particularly like to thank the local public house, which kindly gave shelter to those that had been displaced from their homes last night.
“At the moment we remain at the property with a scene guard in place and to begin an initial investigation with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.”
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Adrian Elliott said: “This was a significant incident to which we immediately deployed six crews, and we’re grateful for the support we have received from the local community and our emergency service colleagues.
“Our thoughts are with the people injured and their families, and with all those local residents who have been affected.
“Fire investigation officers remain on site to assist with the incident and to support the police and other emergency services in investigating the cause of the explosion.”
Hemmingway, a cul-de-sac, remains closed for the time being and is likely to remain so until tomorrow.