A person has died following a suspected gas explosion at a residential property in Stoke Newington, North London, early Tuesday morning.
Emergency services were called to Dumont Road shortly before 5am, where the front of a Victorian terraced house had been blown apart by the force of the blast. London Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed that six fire engines and 40 firefighters were sent to the scene, supported by police and ambulance crews.
Property Destroyed in Early Morning Blast
The explosion caused significant structural damage, with the front of the house partially collapsed and windows shattered. Debris and glass were scattered across the road, and a police cordon was quickly put in place.
A source has confirmed that one person was found deceased within the property. Their identity has not yet been released, and formal identification is ongoing.
“Everyone was just in shock,” said one neighbour, who described the moment of the blast as sounding “like a thunderclap.”
Another resident added: “We thought it was a lorry crashing at first. Then we saw the front of the house had just gone.”
Investigation Underway
The fire was brought under control by 5.42am, but forensic teams and fire investigators remain at the scene.
Station Commander Darren McTernan, who led the emergency response, said:
“This is a tragic incident. We are working closely with the police to determine the cause of the explosion. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid the area throughout the day.”
Cause of Explosion Being Investigated
The cause of the blast is not yet confirmed, but early reports suggest a possible gas leak. The Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade are conducting a joint investigation.
Anyone with information or concerns is urged to contact police via 101, or report gas leaks to the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.