UK
One dead and three hurt after explosion at block of flats in Alloa, Scotland
An explosion that ripped through a block of flats in Scotland has left one man dead and several injured.
Emergency crews were called to Kellie Place in Alloa, Clackmannanshire, at around 6pm on Sunday after reports of an explosion.
One man, who was inside the property at the time, was killed in the blast.
He was pronounced dead at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.
The morning after the explosion. Pic: PA
Pic: PA
Three other people from the same block of flats were taken to Forth Valley Royal Hospital for treatment to minor injuries.
Part of the roof of the property was ripped off by the blast and a gaping hole has been left in the first floor of the building.
The explosion prompted Police Scotland to declare a major incident and close a number of roads to allow for the multi-agency response.
Residents of the block of flats were sent to the local town hall which opened as a respite centre
The explosion prompted a multi-agency response in Alloa
Sergeant Neill Drummond said: “We are still working to establish the full circumstances of what happened at this property, however we can confirm that one male has passed away.
“Our inquiries to confirm his identity and provide his next of kin with all the necessary support they may require are ongoing.
“We are grateful to the local community for their continued cooperation and support of our investigation, and we’ll provide more information in due course.”
Gas and electricity workers secure the facilities
In an update just before 11pm on Sunday, police said road closures were being lifted, but further gas and electrical work on the building may need to happen.
Alloa Town Hall was opened as a respite centre for occupants of the flats while gas and electrical work was undertaken onsite.
Clackmannanshire Council said all those affected managed to find shelter with friends and family overnight.
The local authority said it will continue to assist those who are currently unable to return to their homes.
On Monday, engineers from gas distribution network Scottish Gas Networks (SGN) were among those still at the scene.
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Keith Brown, MSP for the Clackmannanshire and Dunblane constituency, said: “My immediate thoughts are of sympathy with the family and friends of the man who has died, and to send best wishes for full and speedy recoveries to those injured.
“As ever, in situations like this, many thanks are due to the emergency services for the way in which they have responded.
“There will be understandable concerns, particularly amongst residents of neighbouring properties, about the cause of this explosion and the extent of the damage to other homes.
“I know that the relevant authorities will be working hard to provide information, reassurance and assistance as quickly and efficiently as they can.”