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Thornton Heath explosion: Pictures show parts of home landed 60 metres away in field

MyLondon logo MyLondon 09.08.2022 14:30:04 Lexi Iles
Gas workers remain in the area following the explosion

Parts of a house landed 60 metres away in a field, following a huge explosion in Thornton Heath. The incident happened in Galpin Road, South London on Monday, August, 8 at around 7am, and the property was engulfed in flames.

Police searched for survivors in the ruins of the home but a four-year-old girl was tragically found dead. Three others were taken to hospital in life-threatening conditions. The power of the explosion can be seen in shocking images showing the remains of the property and the rubble spewed across the street and into the neighbouring field.

Almost an entire window frame was photographed in the field behind the home, as well as a full pack of baby wipes. Gas workers have spent the morning inspecting the debris.

READ MORE: Children leave heartbreaking drawings at scene in tribute to girl, 4, who died in blast

Shattered glass has also been photographed in the field, around 10 metres from the house. Debris is scattered across the field and a huge hole can be seen in between the row of houses where the house used to be.

Hundreds of residents living in the immediate area were told they could not return to their homes last night (Monday, August, 8) as workers were unable to turn off the gas. There have been reports that gas can be smelt in the air in surrounding areas.

Merton Council declared the explosion a 'major incident' and has opened an evacuation centre at the New Horizons Centre for anyone in need. The incident is now under control but crews remain in the area.

Children's chalk drawings and colourings have filled the pavement outside the cordon with flowers also beginning laid. Notes have been left on teddy bears to remember the little girl.

A resident who lives on nearby London Road told MyLondon that she had heard the explosion on her way to work. She said: "It was the biggest bang and I wondered what on earth that could be. It wasn't until later in the day that I heard what had happened, it's awful, just so sad. That poor girl. I've never heard of a house exploding before."

Have a story get in touch via lexi.iles@reachplc.com .

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mardi 9 août 2022 17:30:04 Categories: MyLondon

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