Authorities reported that a 7-year-old boy had “tragically died” due to the explosion. The following day, on Thursday, Oct. 17, police confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that a man, believed to be in his 30s, was also found in the debris by emergency crews.
The young boy has been identified as Archie York, as reported by the BBC, The Guardian, and Sky News. The BBC further noted that the explosion occurred around 12:45 a.m. local time on Wednesday and destroyed six apartments.
Police also mentioned in a subsequent post on X on Oct. 17 that, “Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the two people who have tragically lost their lives.”
The post further stated, “Specialist officers are supporting their loved-ones and we would urge everyone to respect their privacy at this time.”
In an additional post on Oct. 17, authorities also verified that six individuals — five adults and a child — had been “taken to hospital with varying degrees of injuries,” and noted that all but one had since been released.
A man in his 30s remains hospitalized and is reported to be in “critical but stable condition,” as police shared on X the same day. They added, “We can also confirm that we do not have any reports of missing people related to the incident.”
Authorities have verified that an investigation into the explosion is still underway.
In an Oct. 17 post on X, Northumbria Police expressed appreciation to the community, stating, “We would like to thank the community for their continued support and cooperation at this incredibly tragic time.”
In an Oct. 16 news release, Superintendent Darren Adams stated, “This is a truly devastating incident.”
He went on to add, “The loss and pain they are suffering is unimaginable,” after initially confirming only the death of the young boy.
Adams also mentioned, “In the coming hours and days, we will continue to piece together what has happened,” according to the release.
A subsequent release on Oct. 17 confirmed the discovery of a second body after the incident. In it, Adams described the investigation as “complex and time consuming, not least due to the level of damage which has been caused.”
Archie’s aunt, Abbie York, remembered the 7-year-old as a “loving boy, with a cheeky little grin on his face all of the time,” as reported by the BBC.
According to York, Archie’s parents and his two-month-old brother had been treated in the hospital and have since been released, now under the care of relatives, the outlet noted.
The BBC reported that York had placed a soft toy outside the residence along with a note that read, “This life is so cruel and unfair… your life was snatched away so viciously… our hearts are broken and can never be repaired.”
According to the outlet, the community has been assisting those impacted by donating items such as baby clothes.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, expressed, “It’s been a terribly sad situation for everyone affected but heartwarming how the people of the West End have come together showing incredible community strength,” as noted by the BBC.
“I hope everyone affected takes great comfort in the outpouring of support from communities near and far, with well wishes and donations,” Dungworth added, per the outlet.
Northumbria Police stated they had no further comments when contacted for additional information.
