Newcastle house explosion: Three men arrested over ‘truly devastating’ blast which killed boy, 7, and dad

Three men have been arrested in connection with a suspected gas explosion which killed a father and son in Newcastle on Tuesday.

The blast happened on Glanton Way in the Cowgate area of the city at around 2.45pm, destroying a house and damaging several others.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and the bodies of a seven-year-old boy, one of two children rescued from the wreckage, and his father, 50, were found inside the destroyed home.

Two other children and two adults were also taken to hospital for treatment for injuries, though their condition is not thought to be life-threatening.

Northumbria Police confirmed on Wednesday that three men, aged 24, 27 and 54, had been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and were in custody helping with inquiries.

A spokesperson for the force said: "This is a truly devastating incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have lost their lives.

"We are committed to carrying out a thorough and compassionate investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event."

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched its own investigation into the explosion, which is being treated as unexplained.

A cordon remains in place around the affected area and residents have been advised to stay away while emergency services continue to work at the scene.

Those who have been evacuated from their homes are being supported by Newcastle City Council and the British Red Cross.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 634 of 28/06/22.