Newport ‘Suspicious’ Gas Explosion At Terraced House Injures Three, Prompts Police Probe

Three people were taken to hospital, including one with life-threatening injuries, after a “suspicious” gas explosion in South Wales.
Dozens of firefighters and several emergency vehicles were despatched to the extensively damaged terraced property in Newport on Saturday evening. Three people were treated in hospital after the blast that damaged surrounding properties, the Press Association reports.

A spokeswoman for South Wales Fire Service said they first received reports of a gas explosion at around 7.30pm. Seven fire engines rushed to the scene where 27 firefighters from six stations worked in “difficult” conditions. She said: “The cause of the incident is subject to an ongoing investigation by the police and Wales & West Utilities.

“Three persons were taken to hospital.”

Clive Book, Wales & West Utilities head of emergency service, said on an early assessment the incident appeared to be “related to internal gas pipework and not our gas network”. A spokeswoman for Gwent Police said: “At approximately 7.30pm this evening an explosion occurred at George Street, Newport causing extensive damage to this premise and adjacent buildings. “The occupant of the premise has been conveyed to hospital with life-threatening injuries. “The incident, which is believed to have been caused by a gas explosion, is being treated as suspicious. No other persons are being sought in connection with this incident.”

Despite the destruction the gas supply to surrounding homes and business was not affected.


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