A dramatic explosion from a burning townhouse in Erith sent shockwaves through the local community on Saturday evening, with the blast caught on camera by a nearby resident.
The fire, which broke out shortly after 7pm on 31 May, tore through a garage and flat on Mangold Way, a densely populated residential street. The explosion, which emitted a loud bang and sent thick black smoke into the sky, left residents alarmed as flames engulfed the mid-terraced property.
Explosion Filmed as Fire Engulfs Townhouse
Footage shared online shows a fiery blast erupting from the building, with the source of the explosion still under investigation. Authorities have yet to confirm what caused the loud detonation.
In total, 32 emergency calls were made by concerned residents. Crews from Erith, Bexley, and East Greenwich fire stations were quickly dispatched.
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Massive Emergency Response
Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters responded to the incident. London Fire Brigade deployed one of its 32-metre turntable ladders to provide an aerial view for the Incident Commander, aiding firefighters as they battled to contain the blaze.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:
“Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters tackled a fire at a mid-terraced townhouse converted into flats on Mangold Way in Erith.
A garage and a flat were alight.
The fire was under control by 9.16pm.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.”
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
While no injuries have been reported at this stage, residents of neighbouring homes described scenes of chaos, with some reportedly evacuating as a precaution. One resident said:
“We heard a huge bang—it shook the windows. Then we saw the flames. It was terrifying.”
The London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police are investigating the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of gas involvement, though nothing has been confirmed.
Residents are advised to stay clear of the scene while safety assessments are carried out.
