Appeal: suspected gas explosion in Gainsborough

Update 12.57pm 18th October

We have charged Simion Edwards, 27, of Waterworks Street in Gainsborough on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered, and not a different charge of intent to endanger life. We can also confirm that only Simion Edwards as detailed above has been arrested and charged in connection with this offence. He has also been charged with common assault. We apologise for any confusion.

Update 9.15am 17th October

We have arrested a man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life in connection with this incident. He is currently in custody. 

Following further investigations it now believed that the explosion was caused by a cannister. Our enquiries are ongoing. We’d like to thank everyone for their support with our appeal.

Original release

We are appealing for witnesses following a suspected gas explosion at a property in Waterworks Street in Gainsborough.

We were called to reports of an explosion at the property at 4.45pm today. Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue and utility services attended the incident and the property has been secured by the services. Nobody has been injured, and no neighbouring properties have been affected.

Police will remain on scene overnight while enquiries are carried out.

If you have any information about the incident or have dashcam, phone, or CCTV footage which could help, please contact us. There are a number of ways to get in touch:

• By clicking on the email link [email protected] and putting incident 328 of the 15^th October in the subject box.
• Via our non-emergency number 101, quoting incident 328 of the 15^th October.
• Through the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Reference: Incident 328 of 15th October