Boat Blast Horror on the Thames: Toddler Among Three Seriously Injured
Three people, including an 18-month-old toddler, remain in hospital with serious injuries after a terrifying boat explosion on the River Thames near Lechlade, Wiltshire. The shocking blast happened just after lunchtime on Saturday, 31 May.
Explosion Throws Nine Into River
Emergency services rushed to the scene after reports of a fire and explosion on a boat carrying five adults and four children, aged between 18 months and 7 years. The vessel was away from the riverbank when it suddenly burst into flames, forcing all aboard to jump or be thrown into the water to escape the inferno.
Two Suffer Life-Changing Burns
All nine passengers were hospitalised. According to Wiltshire Police, three remain in stable condition. Tragically, two victims, including the toddler, suffered potentially life-changing burns. A police cordon is in place as investigators probe the cause of the blast and oversee the salvage of the vessel.
Heroic Holidaymakers Jump In to Save Lives
Detective Superintendent Joe Garrity hailed the “heroic bravery” of two passing holidaymakers from Wales who plunged into the Thames without hesitation to rescue those stranded in the water.
“It is a miracle there were no fatalities,” Garrity said. “Much of that must be put down to the response of two holidaymakers who, with no thought for their own safety, saved lives. It was heroic bravery.”
He also praised first responders from Gloucestershire and Thames Valley Police, RAF Fairford, ambulance crews, and fire services for their speedy action.
River Partially Closed; Police Seek Witnesses
The affected stretch of the river remains partially closed to protect other water users and support the ongoing recovery and forensic investigation.
Police urge anyone with information or who witnessed the explosion to contact Wiltshire Police, quoting log 129 of May 31.
