Bassetlaw District Council’s chief executive David Armiger has provided an update on the situation at John Street in Worksop following a fatal house explosion where a local man sadly lost his life.
Emergency services were called to John Street at 7.39pm on April 12 following an explosion inside a house and a major incident was declared.
Despite the best efforts of the responding emergency services, 53-year-old David Howard died at the scene.
Police revealed on Tuesday (15) that a 43-year-old man was arrested and questioned on suspicion of murder. He since been bailed pending further investigation work into the cause of the explosion.
Mr Armiger said: “On Saturday evening, one of our communities experienced a tragic and traumatic event, an explosion at a house in Worksop.
“I’d like to thank the emergency services, specialist recovery teams and the wide number of agencies who were quick to respond, and for the work they have done in the days since to support the people who have been directly affected, and the wider community.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of David Howard who sadly lost his life.
“I would also like to thank residents and the local community for their patience and compassion during this time. We understand how difficult it is live through this experience, and I would like to reassure you that support is available should you need it.”
He also offered an update around people returning to their homes following the blast.
“The majority of people living on or around John Street were able to return to their homes on Sunday evening and Monday morning,” he said.
“This incident now directly affects 14 households who are not currently able to return to their homes, all of whom continue to be supported with emergency accommodation either by ourselves, their insurers or their landlords.
“We are also co-ordinating support from local charities and agencies who are providing these residents with food, clothing and other items. We will continue to work with local agencies to ensure that these people receive the support and advice they need during this difficult time.
“There are currently three properties that have significant structural damage and will need to be demolished. There are also a number of other homes that have also been impacted by the explosion and Bassetlaw District Council’s Building Surveyors will continue to assess the safety of these buildings.
“Due to the ongoing investigation by Nottinghamshire Police, and the challenging process to make the impacted buildings safe, we are not able to provide a definitive timescale on how long residents may be out of their homes.
“We have spoken to these residents to update them on the latest situation and will be providing them with an opportunity to briefly and safely return to their homes to collect some essential items and belongings in the near future.
“The ongoing response to this incident is constantly evolving, and again, I would like to thank residents and the wider community for their patience and understanding during this difficult time.”
