In the early hours of October 16, an explosion took place in Newcastle. The explosion tore through a row of old houses, completely destroying one and making others uninhabitable.
Unfortunately, as a result of the explosion, a seven-year-old boy has passed away. He has been identified as Archie York and the family is posting tributes to him.
There’s also been a second body discovered in the rubble as well. That body has also been identified as Jason Laws, who was in his 30s. Six others were taken to the hospital with a variety of injuries after the blast and fire.
According to a spokesman for the Northumbria Police department, “Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the two people who have tragically lost their lives.
“Specialist officers are supporting their loved-ones and we would urge everyone to respect their privacy at this time.”
The blast took blace in Newcastle in the area of Benwell and Elswick. There is nobody missing that is connected with the explosion.
According to Superintendent Darren Adams, “It is with great sadness that I stand in front of you today following the tragic death of a young child.
“As a result of the incident in the early hours of this morning, a seven-year-old boy has sadly passed away.
“Despite the efforts of the emergency services, he tragically died at the scene.
“This is a truly devastating outcome.
“I have no doubt that the people of Elswick and Benwell, and our wider region, will want to join me in extending their thoughts and condolences to family and friends. The loss and pain they must be suffering is unimaginable.”
Tributes have been posted by many in the family of the seven-year-old boy in his memory.
One social media post from his aunt called Archie ‘the most beautiful, funny, & caring little boy’ whose ‘name deserves to be shouted from the rooftops’.
A neighbor referred to him as being a ‘lovely lad’ and said that everybody knew him as being a good boy.
Three men have been arrested in connection with the explosion, including two in their 30s and on in his 50s. They are being charged on suspicion of two counts of manslaughter, and the production of a class B drug (cannabis).
The Detective Chief Inspector, Katie Smith, said: “This has been a truly tragic incident which resulted in the loss of two lives.
“As a result of our ongoing enquiries, three men have today been arrested in connection with the explosion.
“Our investigation will remain ongoing as we seek to provide answers to what has happened.
“We would continue to ask people to avoid speculation surrounding this incident both online and in the community.”
