Avon and Somerset Police declare major incident as residents evacuated to safety
Category: Local News
Two people have died following a suspicious explosion at a house in Bristol early Sunday morning, prompting Avon and Somerset Police to declare a major incident. The explosion occurred at approximately 6:30 AM BST at a residential address on Sterncourt Road in the Frenchay area, leading to a swift response from emergency services, including armed police, ambulances, and a bomb disposal unit.
The families of the deceased have been informed, and police have cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure. Local road closures are in effect, and residents from nearby homes have been evacuated to a temporary rest centre at a local Harvester pub. "A cordon remains in place to help keep the public safe," a police spokesperson stated, adding that there was no belief of any substantial damage to neighboring properties.
Police have emphasized that the cause of the explosion is being treated as suspicious, but they have ruled out terrorism as a motive. "We would like to assure the public that we are not treating this as a suspected terrorist incident," the spokesperson said. The police also urged the community to avoid speculating about the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
The incident marks a serious escalation in public safety concerns in the region, especially following a recent change in the UK threat level. The College of Policing defines a major incident as an event or situation with serious consequences that requires special arrangements by emergency responder agencies. The swift declaration of a major incident reflects the seriousness with which authorities are treating the explosion.
Emergency services arrived on the scene within minutes of the explosion. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang, with one resident, Bradley Shepherd, describing how he jumped out of bed at the sound. "There was nothing immediately that I could see, but within minutes the police were arriving, attending the property," he recounted. Residents in the vicinity were instructed to evacuate their homes shortly thereafter, with many being taken to the Harvester pub for safety.
Inquiries are currently taking place at another property in Speedwell, which police believe is linked to the explosion. Officers are working diligently to piece together the events that led to this tragic incident, though they have confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the case.
As the investigation continues, police have stated that they are following well-rehearsed plans in response to the incident. The public is being advised to stay clear of the area as emergency services conduct their operations. "We ask people not to speculate around the circumstances and continue to encourage the public to avoid the area," police reiterated.
The Harvester pub, which temporarily was a rest centre for evacuees, has since reopened to the public after operating on a limited basis to support those displaced by the incident. "We're proud to have been able to support our local community when it was needed most," a representative from Harvester commented.
Local authorities and police are likely to increase their presence in the area as the investigation progresses, aiming to provide reassurance to residents. The community remains on edge, with many residents expressing concern over safety following the explosion.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to provide updates on the situation and any findings from the inquiries being conducted. The police have promised to keep the public informed as new information becomes available, underscoring their commitment to transparency in this serious matter.
The tragic loss of two lives has left a somber mood in the Frenchay area, as community members come to terms with the incident. Local officials have expressed their condolences to the families affected and are working closely with police to address any community concerns.
As of now, the investigation remains in its early stages, with police urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. The community is rallying together in support of those impacted, demonstrating resilience in the face of tragedy.