‘Tragic incident’ as man in his 90s found dead after explosion and fire at property

Emergency services were called but it was only later the body of a man aged in his 90s was discovered in the wreckage

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An investigation has been launched following the death of a man after an explosion and fire tore through a property on Saturday evening (May 9).

Emergency services rushed to Church Lane in Selston at 7.18pm, where the body of a man in his 90s was later recovered from the wreckage. Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency crews, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Firefighters from across Nottinghamshire, including Ashfield, attended the incident, and nearby residents were urged to keep their doors and windows shut. Road closures were put in place at the junction of Church Lane and Station Road, and Church Lane and Stoney Lane, but have since been lifted, reports Nottinghamshire Live.

Residents in the surrounding area were evacuated while emergency services worked at the scene. A joint police and fire investigation remains ongoing to determine the cause of the blast.

Detective Sergeant Millie Gillett, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was a tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with the man’s family at this difficult time. They continue to be supported by our officers.

“There is no indication at this stage of any wider threat to the public, and it’s being treated as an isolated incident. I would also like to acknowledge the cooperation of local residents and thank them for their patience.”

Group Manager Jonathan Holford, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, stated: “On behalf of everyone at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS), we would like to express our sincere condolences to the man’s family, friends and all those affected by this tragic incident.

“Our crews worked alongside partner agencies throughout the incident, and we would also like to thank local residents for their patience and cooperation while emergency services carried out their work.”

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