Newcastle mourns explosion victims as community praised for 'bravery' in wake of tragedy

City leaders commended the “bravery, patience and perseverance” of the people of Benwell, before a minute’s silence was held at Wednesday evening’s meeting of Newcastle City Council in memory of the two who died in the Violet Close tragedy.

Seven-year-old Archie York and 35-year-old Jason Laws were killed in the explosion on Wednesday, October 16.

The tributes came hours after Northumbria Police had announced that three men have now been arrested in connection with the incident, all on suspicion of two counts of manslaughter and the production of cannabis.

Addressing the council chamber at the start of Wednesday’s civic centre meeting, lord mayor Rob Higgins mourned the tragic loss of life.

The Benwell and Scotswood councillor, who said he personally knew the names of some families caught up in the tragedy having previously represented the area, said: “On October 16, three weeks ago today, our city was rocked by a tragic incident which sadly claimed the lives of two people.

“An explosion at Violet Close in the Elswick ward sadly resulted in the deaths of seven-year-old Archie York and 35-year-old Jason Laws. Our thoughts remain firmly with those who are grieving for the loss of loved ones and all of those who continue to be affected.

“Beyond the devastating loss of lives and injuries suffered, the effects of what took place in the early hours of that Wednesday morning have been profound. More than 100 people were forced from their homes in the middle of the night with just the clothes on their backs.

“The response of the emergency services, council officers, the local community and the wider community has been nothing short of remarkable, demonstrating how Newcastle rallies round to support its own at a time of dire need. Thankfully, many have now been supported back to their homes, have been given new tenancies, or are in temporary homes while repairs are carried out.

“The emergency services continue to conduct their painstaking investigations into what took place, and our officers are continuing to support these efforts in every possible way.”

Earlier in the day, the council had vowed to “continue to provide any support necessary to all affected residents and give our full assistance to the ongoing investigations” – but that it was “not in a position to comment further” as police investigations continue.

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Coun Higgins added: “On behalf of the city, I send my thanks to the first responders and blue light crews that have been involved; to all council officers who have played their part in supporting the huge number of people who have been affected by what took place; and to the wider community for the outpouring of offers of support that having been coming in since the moment this incident occurred.

“I also commend the bravery, patience and perseverance of those residents who have been caught up in this incredibly traumatic experience. Their resilience in the face of such difficulty is an inspiration to us all.”