Man killed in explosion that destroyed house

A man has died in an explosion that destroyed a house and led to evacuations.

Multiple homes in John Street, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, were evacuated and emergency services were called to the scene just before 20:00 BST on Saturday.

On Sunday, police confirmed the body of a man, in his 50s, had been found in the wreckage of the house.

Nottinghamshire Police said emergency services treated the man but were unable to save him and he died at the scene.

The explosion was declared a major incident by emergency services on Saturday evening.

Everyone else who may have been in the area at the time has been accounted for, police added.

An investigation is under way to establish the cause of the explosion.

A total of 35 properties in the area have been evacuated, with 48 residents needing alternative accommodation, said Julie Leigh, leader of Bassetlaw District Council.

She said the council had provided alternative council at the nearby Crown Place Community Centre, while others have been staying with family and friends.

Chf Insp Clive Collings said: “This is an extremely serious incident that has led to a man’s untimely death.

“The man’s family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

“I have no doubt that this incident will have come as a shock to the community in Worksop.”

He added: “It is likely that the cordon and road closures will remain in place for some time as we carry out our investigations.

“Officers will remain in the area to carry out enquiries relating to the investigation and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with an on-duty officer.”

Specialist experts were called in to search the area after the blast, with demolition workers subsequently attending the scene after midday on Sunday.

Residents, who live near John Street, described “chaos” in the wake of the explosion.

They said they had heard a loud crashing sound which immediately prompted a large number of people to rush out into the street.

They told the BBC there was thick black smoke in the street as some people ran towards the wrecked house to try to help.

Police and fire crews were quickly on the scene, residents said.