Major Explosion Rocks Garratt Lane Flats

At least three people injured in blast caused by suspected gas leak


Picture: Johannes Rueter

A block of flats on Garratt Lane has been hit by what is believed to be a gas explosion this Wednesday morning (31 July).

Shortly before 7.25pm the emergency services were called to the location and found that the ground floor level of the three storey block had been destroyed by the blast.

Emergency crews are working to assist those injured as a result of the damage caused. At this early stage, three people have been found with injuries.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters are dealing with the incident and a 25m cordon is in place as a precaution.

Firefighters rescued one man from the affected flat. He has been taken to hospital. A man from an adjacent flat left before the Brigade arrived and has also been taken to hospital.

Fire crews from Tooting, Croydon and Wimbledon fire stations are at the scene.

 

Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

Bus routes 44 and 270 are diverted via Durnsford Road and Buckhold Road. Route 77 is diverted via Trinity Road and Upper Tooting Road.

Sergeant PS John Nicolaou from South West BCU said: "At this stage we believe up to three people have been injured as a result of what is believed to be a gas explosion. We await a full update on their condition. The Health and Safety Executive will be informed in due course and the Gas Board are at the scene now. All emergency services continue to work together at the scene along with the local authority."

July 31, 2019