Second Body Discovered After Deadly Newcastle House Explosion, Boy Among the Victims
Second body found after house explosion in Newcastle that killed seven-year-old boy
In Newcastle, United Kingdom, a house exploded, killing a man and a 7-year-old son.
In a news release that same day, Northumbria Police confirmed that the incident in Violet Close, Benwell, occurred early on Wednesday, October 16.
Following the tragic announcement of a 7-year-old boy’s death, authorities revealed on Thursday, October 17, via X (formerly known as Twitter), that rescue teams had also uncovered the body of a man in his 30s within the debris.
The BBC, The Guardian, and Sky News have recently revealed that the young kid is Archie York. Six apartments were destroyed in the Wednesday blast, which occurred at approximately 12:45 a.m. local time, according to the BBC.
In a further post on X on October 17, police said, “Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the two people who have tragically lost their lives.”
“Specialist officers are supporting their loved-ones and we would urge everyone to respect their privacy at this time,” the tweet continued.
In another update on X on October 17, officials reported that six people, including a toddler and five adults, were hospitalized with injuries of varying severity. However, all but one have since been discharged. Police further stated that a man in his 30s remains in critical but stable condition. They also confirmed there have been no reports of missing persons related to the incident.
Authorities said that the explosion is still being investigated.
“We would like to thank the community for their continued support and cooperation at this incredibly tragic time,” Northumbria Police said in its Oct. 17 X posts.
Superintendent Darren Adams stated in the news release dated October 16 that “This is a truly devastating incident.”
At first, he only confirmed the death of the young youngster. “The loss and pain they are suffering is unimaginable,” he continued.
According to the announcement, Adams added, “We will continue to piece together what has happened in the coming hours and days.”
In an additional statement released on October 17, Adams described the inquiry as “complex and time consuming, not least due to the level of damage which has been caused.” The statement also confirmed the finding of a second death following the incident.
The 7-year-old Archie was described by his aunt, Abbie York, as a “loving boy, with a cheeky little grin on his face all of the time,” according to the BBC.
York stated that after receiving hospital treatment, Archie’s parents and two-month-old sibling were discharged and were now being cared for by family members, according to the station.
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According to the BBC, York had placed a plush toy outside the house along with the words, “This life is so cruel and unfair… your life was snatched away so viciously… our hearts are broken and can never be repaired.”
According to the outlet, the community has been providing aid to people impacted by the situation, including by donating supplies like baby clothes.
“It’s been a terribly sad situation for everyone affected but heartwarming how the people of the West End have come together showing incredible community strength,” stated Susan Dungworth, the commissioner of police and crime for Northumbria, according to the BBC.
“I hope everyone affected takes great comfort in the outpouring of support from communities near and far, with well wishes and donations,” Dungworth stated to the media.
When PEOPLE called Northumbia Police for more information, they had nothing more to say.
