Tragic Haut du Mont Explosion Kills Seven
Just before 4 a.m. on December 10, an explosion ripped through the Haut du Mont flats on Pier Road, killing seven people. Victims include Peter Bowler (72), Raymond ‘Raymie’ Brown (71), Romeu and Louise de Almeida (67 and 64), Derek and Sylvia Ellis (61 and 73), and Billy Marsden (62). Two other victims remain unnamed at their families’ request.
Island Mourns as Rescue Efforts Continue
By 11 a.m. on December 12, the entire island fell silent to honour those lost. Flags flew at half-mast and condolence books opened at parish halls. While rescuers continue to search for possible survivors, around 35 residents have been moved to temporary housing.
Robin Smith, Jersey’s Chief of Police, described the recovery as “meticulous and painstaking,” warning it could take “weeks, not days” to complete. A senior detective is investigating the cause of the blast.
Gas Supply Ruled Out as Cause
The flats were confirmed not to be connected to the mains gas supply, Jersey’s housing provider revealed. Island Energy, the island’s gas supplier, reported “no issues detected” with its network. Engineers have been carrying out safety checks since the incident.
Island Energy CEO Jo Cox gave a statement outside the La Collette offices, saying, “I join everyone in Jersey, along with my colleagues at Island Energy, in offering our prayers and thoughts to families who have lost loved ones during this tragic time.”
Official Probes and Investigations Underway
Island Energy continues to support emergency teams and will carry out its own probe alongside official inquiries.
The tragedy has left Jersey in shock, as the island waits for answers and justice for the victims of the devastating December explosion.
