BREAKING: Explosion in Birmingham destroys house and cars

West Midlands Police has reported that one house has destroyed with others significantly damaged on Dulwich Road in Kingstanding.

Casualties have been reported and evacuations taking place. The road and other roads nearby have been blocked off - and are likley to be shut for some time. People are asked to avoid the area.

The cause of the explosion is not yet known. Police said they were called at 8.38pm on Sunday 26 June. West Midlands Fire Service said that they emergency services were working with Cadent Gas and National Grid to manage the incident.

West Midlands Police added: “Please think of those involved and their loved ones and do not post images.” It has also advised: “If you live in the area follow the instructions of first responders. If you have been evacuated, go to the meeting place immediately.”

West Midlands Fire Service said: “At 20:38 fire crews responded to multiple reports of an explosion on Dulwich Lane, Kingstanding.

“The explosion, the cause of which is unknown at this time, has destroyed one property and caused damage to other properties and vehicles nearby.

“The number of casualties or injuries is not confirmed at this time. We are working hard with colleagues from West Midlands Police, West Midlands Ambulance, Cadent Gas and National Grid to manage this incident.

“Dulwich Road is closed and is expected to be for some time. People are urged to avoid the area to allow the emergency services to do their work.

“West Midlands Police are managing evacuations in the area and we urge those local to the incident to follow the instructions of emergency service officers at the scene.”

West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “We have sent three ambulances, five paramedic officers, the MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic, and a NILO to the scene.

Nicky Brennan, Victims Commissioner for the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner is among those who have expressed sympathy with everyone affected. She said: “My thoughts are with all impacted by tonights horrific explosion in #Kingstanding. @WMPolice have asked for images/videos of the incident not to be shared out of respect for those affected Thank you to our emergency services for being outstanding as always.”

Cllr Sharon Thompson, Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Housing also requested that images are not shared online. She said: “Thoughts are with everyone involved in tonights horrific explosion in #Kingstanding. @WMPolice have asked people dont share images out of respect of the families affected - let’s respect that. Thank you to emergency services, @BhamCityCouncil & the local community who responded.”

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