Explosion and Blaze Rip Through Bethnal Green Flats
A massive fire and explosion caused major damage to a second-floor flat and left the third floor above battered by heat and smoke. The blast also smashed windows and damaged the fascia of maisonettes opposite the building.
Dramatic Rescue as Firefighters Save Trapped Residents
Firefighters in breathing apparatus heroically rescued a man from the second floor, said Station Commander Paul 1. He was rushed to hospital by London Ambulance Service teams.
Three others were led to safety using fire escape hoods. A fourth was helped out by crews. All were treated for smoke inhalation, and three were taken to hospital.
“Firefighters conducted a thorough search of the block and assisted two more people to safety,” said officials.
Danger Lingers: Gas Leak Prompts 25-Metre Safety Zone
With a gas leak detected, crews stayed on scene well after the fire was out. Police set up a 25-metre cordon as a precaution.
A section of Bethnal Green Road was shut down, with drivers urged to avoid the area.
Emergency Services Swarm the Scene
The incident sparked 42 emergency calls, and at the blaze’s height 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters from Whitechapel, Shoreditch, Shadwell, Dockhead, Islington, and nearby stations tackled the inferno.
The fire broke out at 5:53pm and was declared under control by 2:17am.
The Fire Brigade’s Investigation team is now probing the cause of the devastating explosion and blaze.
