Gas explosion destroys four houses and leaves 15 injured
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.A survivor spoke of the horrific explosion which flattened four houses and injured 15 people when a suspected gas blast tore through his home.
Leon Barker said that he was getting ready for work yesterday when the blast ripped through the terraced house he shares with his wife and three children in Merlin Road, Salford, Greater Manchester. Mr Barker said: "I wouldn't wish this on anyone – having to dig out my children."
Neighbours described a "massive booming noise" at about 7.15am – the sound could be heard up to five miles away. Investigators believe that the source of the explosion was the kitchen of an 82-year-old woman who is being treated in hospital for 30 per cent burns. She is currently in a critical but stable condition. More than 40 firefighters attended the blast and 200 homes were evacuated.
City West Housing Trust, which owns the homes, said that the gas supply was reconnected on Monday. Fire crews said that they were "amazed" that more people weren't seriously injured.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments