Bristol 'explosion': Three injured after fire breaks out in Hartcliffe area
Witness describes 'lots of debris and a large glass panel that looked as though it had been expelled with some force from the upstairs window'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Emergency services have been called to an apparent explosion at a house in Bristol.
Avon Fire and Rescue said its crews were called to a fire around 7.50pm at Whitchurch Lane in the Hartcliffe area.
Steve Imrie, area manager, said four fire engines were sent to the scene and crews found a fire within a building that had sustained significant structural damage".
He said they worked to extinguish the fire while other firefighters administered first aid to three injured people at the scene.
Images showed the front of the house had been ripped away by an apparent blast.
A witness told the BBC she saw ”lots of debris and a large glass panel that looked as though it had been expelled with some force from the upstairs window” on the road.
She said her neighbours had heard a “big explosion”.
One witness told Bristol Live: ”It looks like half the house has fallen down.”
Another said they had seen at least one person being treated for burns.
Mr Imre said: “On arrival, crews found a fire within the building with significant structural damage and committed two firefighters in breathing apparatus to extinguish the fire, while other fire fighters assisted in administering first aid to three casualties on the scene.
“Crews are currently working with police, ambulance, and the local authority to make the scene safe and assess the integrity of the building.
“The cause of the incident at this time is unknown and will be subject to an investigation throughout the evening.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments