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A second person died following an explosion in Benwell that destroyed several houses earlier this week, police said.
The force provided a new major update on the incident that occurred on Thursday, October 17.
The powerful explosion happened in the early hours of Wednesday, with emergency services being called to Violet Close in Benwell at about 12.45am.
Eyewitnesses described a “very loud bang” and a “bright flash.” In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, some residents were told to leave their homes and go to a rest centre run by Red Cross volunteers who handed out food and mobile phone chargers.
Six people were taken to hospital in light of the incident, and a seven-year-old boy died at the scene.
Supt Darren Adams from Northumbria Police said on October 16 of the death of the child: “This is a truly devastating outcome.
“I have no doubt the people of Elswick and Benwell and our wider region will join me in extending their condolences to family and friends.”
Aerial pictures from the scene showed several homes destroyed by the explosion, with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue confirming six flats were “badly affected”.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lynsey McVay said yesterday: “Six flats were badly affected, two of which suffered the main brunt of the explosion.
“We continue to search the buildings and our specialist dog unit remains on scene.”
Several vehicles were also damaged by the explosion.
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