Horror fire engulfs multiple houses after huge ‘explosion’ in Newcastle

A house in Newcastle has been set ablaze following a huge “explosion”, with nearby residents warned to keep their windows and doors shut.

The “large-scale incident” took place in Violet Close, Newcastle at around 12.45am.

The number of casualties is currently unknown, as is the cause of the blaze.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Shortly before 12.45am today (Wednesday), police were contacted by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, who are dealing with a fire at an address in the Violet Close area of Newcastle.

“Emergency services remain in attendance at the scene. Road closures are in place on Buddle Road and the surrounding area, and motorists and residents are advised to avoid the area and to keep doors and windows closed if they see and smell smoke.”

Witnesses on social media claimed that they heard an “explosion” in the early hours of the morning of the Benwell and Elswick area.

Officials are warning people motorists that Buddle Road is closed in both directions from B1305 Atkinson Road (Benwell) to St Johns Road (Elswick).

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service added: “We currently have several firefighting appliances in attendance at a large scale incident in Violet Close, Newcastle.

“Please avoid the area and keep doors and windows closed until further notice. Thank you.”

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks are also at the scene alongside emergency services.

A spokesperson from the company said: “Northern Gas Networks engineers are this morning (October 16) responding to an incident in the area of Violet Close, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear. Our teams are supporting the emergency services during this ongoing incident.”

One resident praised the efforts of the emergency services online. They said: “What a horrible thing to see this was big respect to all you firefighters especially the first ones on scene straight into the already badly damaged building that was collapsing and burning very quick.”

Another individual said that they felt the explosion whilst working. “Working on Scotswood Road and heard/felt the explosion rocked the asphalt plant,” they said.

More to follow…