A baby is among nine people taken to hospital after a boat reportedly exploded and caught fire on the River Thames near Lechlade, triggering a massive emergency services response just before midday on Saturday.

The dramatic incident unfolded near the Wiltshire-Gloucestershire border, with early reports suggesting the explosion occurred aboard a residential vessel. Bystanders acted swiftly, helping to rescue several people from both the burning boat and the river.

Multi-Agency Emergency Response

Two air ambulances — from Thames Valley and Hampshire and Isle of Wight — landed nearby in a field, joining six land ambulances, three Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) units, and two rapid response vehicles.

Numerous fire crews from surrounding counties, including Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and MOD fire services, also raced to the scene, alongside officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary, Thames Valley Police, Wiltshire Police, and MOD Police.

Casualties and Hospital Transfers

According to police, nine people were injured in the explosion, including a baby who was airlifted to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children for urgent treatment.

Another seriously injured individual was transported by air to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, while others were taken by road to nearby hospitals. The conditions of all patients remain unconfirmed, but reports suggest at least two people have since been discharged.

Investigation Underway

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police, who are leading the investigation due to jurisdictional geography, confirmed:

“A section of the river was closed and enquiries into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Officers remain at the scene gathering evidence.”

No further details have been released about the cause of the explosion or whether foul play is suspected. The river remains partially cordoned off while forensic and fire investigators work alongside local officers.

Eyewitness Accounts

Locals reported hearing a “loud bang” followed by plumes of smoke and flames engulfing the boat. One eyewitness said:

“There were people jumping into the water and others dragging people to safety. It was chaos — but the public stepped in incredibly bravely.”

Community Impact

Lechlade, a popular boating and tourist spot, was packed with visitors enjoying the late spring weather. The explosion has deeply shocked the community and led to the temporary closure of parts of the river and surrounding towpaths.

Appeal for Information

Wiltshire Police are urging anyone with information, photos, or video footage of the incident to contact them via 101, quoting incident reference 31/05/25 – River Thames Lechlade Fire.