Tragic Explosion Claims 10 Lives in St Helier
Deputy Viscount Mark Harris opened and quickly adjourned the inquests into the deadly explosion in St Helier. This allowed families to reclaim the bodies for funerals after the horrific blast on 10 December.
Nine Bodies Identified, Tenth Victim Dies Later
In the days following the explosion at the Haut du Mont flats, nine residents were recovered and identified through dental records, police revealed during the hearing. Those who died from their injuries include Peter Bowler, Raymond Brown, Romeu and Louise De Almeida, Derek and Sylvia Ellis, Ken and Jane Ralph, and Billy Marsden.
A 10th victim, Kathleen McGinness, 73, who lived in a neighbouring building, was seriously injured in the blast. She later died in hospital on 1 January, though the exact cause of her death remains undetermined.
Investigation Ongoing as Cordon Remains
Pathologists confirmed all 10 bodies can now be released for funerals to proceed. Meanwhile, police maintain a cordon around the site while they continue to hunt for answers.
Detective Superintendent Alison Fossey said: “This investigation will be long and complex and could take several months.”
