There is currently a huge emergency response following a suspected gas explosion at a property on Kirkland Walk in the Park End area of Middlesbrough
Emergency services including Cleveland Police, North East Ambulance Service (HART) Team, The Great North Air Ambulance and Cleveland Fire brigade descended on the street in the Park End area of Middlesbrough shortly after 12:40pm following a large explosion which has destroyed a property and injured at least one person.
Locals were left in shock as the incident unfolded with many taking to the street to find out what exactly took place.
Cleveland Fire Brigade remain on the scene of an incident on Kirkland Walk in Middlesbrough. “We received a call on 18/06 at 12:42 alerting us of a suspected explosion at a residential property. Three fire engines are in attendance from Grangetown and Middlesbrough.”
Statement from Middlesbrough Police’s District Commander, Superindendent Marc Anderson, on explosion on Kirkland Walk in Middlesbrough.
“Emergency services remain at the scene of a house explosion in Kirkland Walk, Middlesbrough.
A 57-year-old man has been taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle with serious burn injuries.
Twelve houses have been affected by the explosion, and houses in Kirkland Walk and nearby Errington Avenue have been evacuated.
Cleveland Police, Cleveland Fire Brigade, North East Ambulance Service and Northern Powergrid are currently working together at the scene, to make it safe.
Whilst there is currently no wider threat to public safety, members of the public should avoid the area.
Overdale Road is currently closed between Ettington Avenue and Gilmonby Road. There is no access to Frampton Green from Ettington Avenue.
Anyone concerned about housing needs or support can visit Park End Primary School which has now been opened as a reception centre for residents.
We thank local residents for their patience as we continue to deal with this incident.”
Members of the public are urged to avoid the area and adhere to instructions from emergency services.
This is a developing story and more will be posted once it becomes available.