Blast at Wiltshire Flat Leaves Man Seriously Burned
A man suffered serious burns after a powerful explosion ripped through a third-floor flat in Chippenham’s Market Place just after 6pm.
Emergency Services Rush to Scene
Wiltshire Police quickly sealed off the area, setting up a cordon between St Mary Street, Market Place, and Timber Street. Nearby buildings were evacuated as a precaution.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the flat sustained significant structural damage. The injured man was first taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, then moved to a specialist burns unit in Swansea for urgent care.
Investigation Underway, Cause Unknown
The cause of the dramatic blast remains a mystery. Superintendent Phil Staynings said the probe is still in its “very early stages,” with teams working through the night to uncover what happened.
“We are working with the fire and rescue service and Wiltshire Council to secure the property,” Staynings said. “At this stage, we cannot determine the cause but our investigation will continue throughout the night.”
Community and Volunteers Step Up
Volunteers from the British Red Cross are on hand to support those affected. Temporary overnight accommodation is being arranged for displaced residents, while local businesses have pitched in with refreshments, shelter, and places to stay.
“We’d like to thank local businesses and the British Red Cross for their support tonight,” added Staynings.
