"Distressed" Newcastle MP Chi Onwurah reacts to Elswick explosion which killed 7 year old boy

Firefighters and emergency services inspect the scene of an explosion in Benwell. Northumbria police confirmed that a child had died and six people were taken to hospital following the explosion of a house. Firefighters and emergency services inspect the scene of an explosion in Benwell. Northumbria police confirmed that a child had died and six people were taken to hospital following the explosion of a house.
Firefighters and emergency services inspect the scene of an explosion in Benwell. Northumbria police confirmed that a child had died and six people were taken to hospital following the explosion of a house. | Photo by SCOTT HEPPELL / AFP) (Photo by SCOTT HEPPELL/AFP via Getty Images
Newcastle MP Chi Onwurah has spoken of her heartbreak following an explosion in Newcastle which killed a child today.

Emergency services were called to the Elswick area of the city at around 12:45am on Wednesday, October 16 which saw a fire raging in the west end of the city.

At a police press conference early this afternoon it was confirmed a seven year old boy died as a result of the incident. Six people have also been taken to hospital.

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Firefighters and emergency services inspect the scene of an explosion in Benwell. Northumbria police confirmed that a child had died and six people were taken to hospital following the explosion of a house.Firefighters and emergency services inspect the scene of an explosion in Benwell. Northumbria police confirmed that a child had died and six people were taken to hospital following the explosion of a house.
Firefighters and emergency services inspect the scene of an explosion in Benwell. Northumbria police confirmed that a child had died and six people were taken to hospital following the explosion of a house. | Photo by SCOTT HEPPELL / AFP) (Photo by SCOTT HEPPELL/AFP via Getty Images

Taking to social media, MP for Newcastle Upon Tyne Central and West, said: “I am incredibly distressed to hear what happened in Violet Close. It is an extremely shocking event and my thoughts are with everyone affected, especially those in hospital, their families and all local residents.

“I understand emergency services are still at the scene and I am extremely greateful to them as well as the NHS staff working hard to care for people who have been injured - and everyone who is taking care of those who needed to evacuate last night.

“The way the community has pulled together to support affected residents, sharing clothes and food - including at Murton Lodge Community Centre - truly shows the best of us.

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“I am in touch with the local and national Government and we’ll be working together to ensure support is put in place for all effected, and that we understand what caused this terrible destruction.

“I know Northern Gas Networks are investigating what happened and we are all looking for answers.

It’s a scary time for many in the area. I know many in the city will want to support those affected. Please get in touch with myself or Newcastle City Council if you need help.”

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