Birmingham house explosion: man ‘critical’ in hospital as house destroyed

People rushed to rescue a man from a house in Kingstanding after an explosion destroyed the property and cars nearby.

West Midlands Ambulance Service said the man suffered ‘life threatening injuries’ and was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

Four other men suffered minor injuries following the blast and were treated at the scene and discharged.

Fire fighters remain at the scene this morning. They said the incident is believed to be a ‘gas explosion’. Drone footage from West Midlands Fire Service show the extent of the damage. The explosion significantly damaged three adjoining properties.

People were evacuated from the scene last night as emergency services were called at 8.30pm. Birmingham City Council was on hand to provide accommodation to those who needed it. Nearby primary school, Warren Farm, in Aylesbury Crescent, is closed this morning (Monday June 27), the fire service said.

Residents told how they heard a “massive bang” just after 8.30pm.

One said: “It shook the windows of the house and at first I thought a plane had crashed into the street or it was an earthquake. I rushed outside and the house a few doors down was just gone.

“There were flames and bricks everywhere and all you could hear were pops as the glass in the windows was smashing. It’s just horrific down here, it’s like something from a disaster movie. I just pray no one is seriously hurt or worse.”

What has West Midlands Ambulance said about the house explosion in Kingstanding?

West Midlands Ambulance Service said:  “One property has been completely destroyed with three others badly damaged. Cars have also been damaged.

“A man was helped from the property by people at the scene but had suffered very serious injuries.  After assessment and treatment at the scene, he was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with the MERIT team travelling with the ambulance.  His condition on arrival at hospital was described as life threatening.

“Four further men have been assessed by ambulance crews for minor conditions but have been discharged at the scene.

“Members of the Hazardous Area Response Team continue to work with specialist firefighters at the scene.”

What has West Midlands Fire Service said about the explosion?

West Midlands Fire Service said: “The incident, believed to be a gas explosion, has completely destroyed one property and significantly damaged 3 adjoining properties.

“One man was rescued prior to the arrival of the fire service and was taken into the care of West Midlands Ambulance, and was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Four other people have been treated at the scene for minor injuries.

“We have evacuated the affected and surrounding properties with our colleagues from West Midlands Police. Our search and rescue dog and handler have been mobilised to the scene and an additional search and rescue dog from Lancashire has been requested and is also en route to assist us.

“Birmingham City Council planning officers are standing by to assist residents that may need rehousing. A structural engineer has also been requested.

“We continue to ask the public to avoid the area and follow the instructions of on-scene emergency service officers.”

What has West Midlands Police said about the Kingstanding house explosion?

West Midlands Police said: “All emergency services and utility companies are at the scene of a house explosion on Dulwich Road, Kingstanding, Birmingham.

“One house is destroyed with others significantly damaged. Cars have also been damaged. There are reports of casualties but the number and severity of their injuries in unknown at this time.

“Evacuations are taking place. Those evacuated will be told where to meet. People in the area must immediately follow the instructions of first responders. Dulwich Road and surround roads are closed and will be for a very long time. Please help us by avoiding the area. We were called at 8.38pm on Sunday 26 June.”

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