A seven-year-old boy was killed, and six others were injured in a tragic explosion early this morning in Newcastle’s Benwell and Elswick neighborhood, according to Northumbria Police. Emergency services responded quickly just before 1:00 am after a loud blast and a bright flash were heard by locals. Witnesses rushed outside to assess the situation, with one saying, “I thought it was an explosion when I saw a big flash. I thought it was a car crash, but when I smelled the air, I knew something terrible had happened.”
Drone footage showed the extent of the damage, with six apartments severely damaged and one house completely destroyed. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the explosion had affected two of the apartments the most. The scene is still considered dangerous, with firefighters and emergency teams continuing their search through the rubble.
Northumbria Police Superintendent Darren Adams described the situation as “devastating” and confirmed the death of the seven-year-old boy. “Our thoughts are with his family and all those impacted,” he added.
Six people were taken to the hospital, though their injuries have not been fully disclosed. As a precaution, some residents from nearby properties were evacuated by fire officials.
The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
The incident has left the local community in shock. A family friend of one of the victims said it was “heartbreaking,” adding that the blast caused a large fire, making the damage worse. Neighbors have started offering food, shelter, and clothing to those who lost their homes. The investigation continues, and updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
