Investigation launched after man dies in blast

The man’s body was found by firefighters who went into a burning property in Brandon, County Durham, yesterday evening.

A second man managed to escape from the house.

Crews were responding to multiple calls from the public about an explosion in Moor Edge in the village, with smoke and flames seen coming from the roof, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said.

The spokesman said the service was alerted to the incident at 6.33pm yesterday and crews responded from Durham, Spennymoor and Bishop Auckland.

They found windows on both the ground and first floor had been blown out and part of the roof was missing, with flames and smoke coming from the first floor windows and roof void.

The 66-year-old man who
managed to escape from the building was taken to hospital by ambulance, the spokeswoman said.

She said crews wearing breathing apparatus quickly located the second man, but he was found to be dead.

A joint fire service and police investigation will begin today.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Stuart Errington said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the gentleman at this tragic time.

“As a service we aim to protect and educate the members of our communities about the dangers of fire.

“At a time like this we are reminded of the dangers of fire and urge all residents to take up our offer of free Home Fire Safety Advice and to fit smoke alarms in their properties.”