Explosion In Southampton, Five People Injured
[Updating: There was an explosion at a Hilltop Court, Southampton residence which officials said was likely "caused by a gas leak" and "five occupants of the residence, which is made up of a series of apartments, were conveyed to the hospital to be treated for various injuries" ]
Emergency service personnel are responding to an incident in the Southampton area this evening [May 2], with unofficial reports suggesting there was some form of an issue with a house.
Ambulance, fire vehicles and police vehicles can be seen. Further confirmed details are limited at this time, however we will update as able, as it is likely that we will receive a statement from officials at the scene.
Update 10.06pm: Police confirm there a was “an explosion at a Hilltop Court, Southampton residence and ‘several people were taken to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment.”
A police spokesperson said, “Around 8:50pm today [Monday, 2nd May 2022], several 911 calls were received regarding an explosion at a Hilltop Court, Southampton residence.
“Police, Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service as well as ambulance personnel responded to the scene. Details remain limited at this time. However, it appears that the building involved suffered significant damage.
“Several people were taken to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment. The extent of their injuries is currently unknown.
“Members of the public are being urged not to share photos or videos of the scene via social media, as inquiries continue regarding the circumstances of this incident. A further update is anticipated in due course, once more information is known.”
We will not be posting footage from the scene right now, as to err on side of caution, however there are large numbers of emergency service vehicles on scene and the property looks very damaged. Unofficial reports suggest the sound of the explosion could be heard by numerous people in a fairly wide area in the west end.
Update 10.29pm: Police statement: They said “five occupants were conveyed to the hospital”
Update 10.40pm: Premier Burt tweeted, “I’ve learned about a horrific incident that has taken place this evening. I have received an update from the Minister of National Security. My thoughts are with the family and their neighbors during this horrific time.”
Update 10.42pm: Area MP Crystal Caesar and MPs Jason Wade and Wayne Caines:
Update 10.55pm: Speaking at the scene the police said, “Shortly before 9:00pm tonight, several 911 calls were received about an explosion in the area of Hilltop Court, located off St. Anne’s Road, Tribe Road, Southampton.
“First responders attended, fire service and others, ambulance personnel. Upon arrival, it was ascertained that an explosion had taken place, and it would appear at this stage, early in the investigation, that this was caused by a gas leak.
“So we still have fire service personnel on the scene just doing an assessment. Five occupants of the residence, which is made up of a series of apartments, were conveyed to the hospital to be treated for various injuries.
“It’s still an active scene. We anticipate the fire service will be holding the scene overnight so they can do a thorough and extensive investigation to ascertain the course of this unfortunate situation.”
Update 12.02am: Following a briefing from the Incident Commander from the Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service and the Bermuda Police Service, the Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, said, “I was shocked to learn of the horrific incident which occurred in the St Anne’s Road area earlier tonight.
“Our thoughts and our prayers are with the families that have been directly impacted, and we hope for a speedy recovery for those that have been injured.
“As the investigation into the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion continue overnight tonight, I would ask members of the public not to share images of any person that has been injured.
“I also ask that no one attempt to enter the premises while the investigation is taking place.
“Members of the Bermuda Police Service and the Royal Bermuda Regiment will be maintaining a cordon around the area to ensure public safety and preservation of evidence.
“More information will be released in due course, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to our Fire Fighters and First responders for their swift reaction to this incident.”
Update: Shadow National Security Minister Michael Dunkley said, “On learning of the house explosion our first thoughts and prayers turn to the well being and safety of the residents. Thank you to the all the emergency services and to the community for rallying together. Many rushed to the scene including MP’s and my colleague Dwayne Robinson. This is a shocking incident and we hope the investigation determines the cause for the explosion and collapse of the dwelling.”
Update 7.55am: Police maintain watch at the scene this morning, and we expect to receive an official update later today.
Update 4.50pm: A police spokesperson said, “Sadly, the Bermuda Police Service can now confirm that a 49-year-old male Filipino guest worker – who was one of the occupants of the Hilltop Court, Southampton residence where an explosion occurred around 8:50pm Monday, 2nd May 2022 – later succumbed to his injuries.
“Identification of the deceased is anticipated in due course.
“His 50-year-old wife, also a Filipino guest worker, is still receiving treatment at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and at last check was listed in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit.
“The three other men injured in the blast, understood to be Southampton residents aged 31, 57 and 82-years-old, have since been treated and discharged from hospital.
“A joint investigation involving the Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service and the Bermuda Police Service, regarding the circumstances and cause of this tragic incident, continues.
“The investigators appreciate all information received so far and urge anyone with additional details that can assist with inquiries to call 247-1744 as soon as possible.”
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Category: Accidents and fires, All, News
