A 33-year-old man has been charged in connection with a house explosion in Newcastle that killed a seven-year-old boy and a man in his 30s.
The explosion occurred in October on Violet Close, in the Benwell and Elswick area of the city, and tragically claimed the lives of seven-year-old Archie York and Jason Laws.
Reece Galbraith, of Gateshead, has been charged with two counts of manslaughter, production of cannabis, and being concerned in the supply of cannabis. His arrest and charges come as part of an ongoing investigation by Northumbria Police.
Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, who is leading the case, said:
“This was a truly tragic incident in which two people died. As a result of our ongoing investigation, a man has now been charged. We recognise the strength of feeling around what has happened and would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.”
The explosion had a devastating impact on the local community, and police have been working extensively to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Galbraith will now face legal proceedings as investigations continue. Northumbria Police have urged the public to respect the judicial process and refrain from speculation that could interfere with the case.
