Arrest After House Explosion in Nottinghamshire Leaves One Dead
A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a house explosion in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, left one person dead and badly damaged several other properties and cars.
Blast Shakes John Street Area of Worksop
Emergency services were called to John Street at 19:39 BST on Saturday evening following reports of a large explosion. The blast killed 53-year-old David Howard, who was discovered in the debris and pronounced dead at the scene.
A 43-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of being connected with the incident, Nottinghamshire Police confirmed. He has been questioned and released on bail while investigations go on. Officials have stressed that the cause of the explosion is still unknown and they are considering all options.
Investigation in Early Stages
Detective Chief Inspector Ruby Burrow cautioned against speculation, saying: “Our investigation is still in its early stages, and we are doing everything we can to establish what led to this deeply tragic incident. It is still early to determine whether there was foul play involved,”
“Extensive Damage and Displacement
An explosion destroyed one terraced house and partially brought down two others. Blast debris damaged eight other properties and 20 vehicles. About 50 residents from 35 properties have been evacuated and some still have not been able to return home and remain in temporary accommodation.
Part of John Street, meanwhile, is still closed off while demolition and investigation work takes place. Authorities said everyone in the area has been accounted for, with just one individual treated for minor injuries.
By the Community Shocked by the Incident
In an initial public reaction in the aftermath of the explosion, local residents took to social media to express shock and concern. The blast rattled her home, lifted dust around her dining room, and Debbie Adams, who also lives nearby, told how she feared to step outside. The house was completely collapsed and neighbors were walking through clouds of dust,” she said.
Piotr Peruki, whose backyard is adjacent to that of the explosion site, recalled being afraid and too tired to sleep and had spent the night in the car. His teenage son was traumatized by the incident at the time, wanting to leave the area over safety concerns.
Official and Community Reaction
Nottinghamshire Police, Bassetlaw District Council and Nottinghamshire County Council said they were grateful to the public for their “patience and cooperation” while emergency teams work to secure the area and establish the cause.
Although a final determination of who was responsible will depend on a thorough investigation and will probably take time, the community must now come to terms with the aftermath of this tragic event.
