Huge Blaze in Killingworth as Caravan Goes Up in Flames
Emergency services scrambled to Killingworth this afternoon after a static caravan erupted in flames, sending thick smoke plumes high into the sky. The fire sparked fears of a possible explosion following a loud “big bang” heard by locals.
Fire Tears Through Caravan and Adjacent Property
The fire broke out around 2pm on Garth Twenty Seven, a residential street in North Tyneside. Over 20 emergency calls flooded in to Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, leading to three fire engines rushing from Byker and Gosforth stations.
While initial rumours hinted at an explosion, the fire service confirmed there was no blast. Instead, the blaze originated in a static caravan before rapidly spreading to a nearby terraced house and a tree.
A Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: “The source of the fire was a static caravan that has since spread to the adjacent property. No persons are involved.”
Images from the scene show charred debris, burnt fencing, and damaged brickwork. Firefighters, decked out in breathing apparatus, battled the flames with hose reels and stayed on site to douse smouldering hotspots well after the main blaze was put out.
Police Join Fire Crews; Public Told to Steer Clear
Northumbria Police were alerted at 2.40pm and worked closely with fire crews. They urged locals to avoid the area during the ongoing operation.
A police spokesperson added: “Emergency services remain in attendance at the scene.”
The North East Ambulance Service confirmed it wasn’t called to the scene, with no injuries reported so far.
Witnesses Recall ‘Big Bang’ and Serious Damage
One resident told us: “I was at home and heard a big bang. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but then the fire engines came flying past. I walked up the street and the place was totally black—there’s been a lot of damage.”
Firefighters initially left late afternoon but returned shortly after due to a nearby tree showing signs of reignition, highlighting the fire’s intensity.
Cause of Fire Under Investigation
The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Police and fire officials are expected to carry out detailed inquiries at the scene over the coming days.
