An explosion that ripped through a block of flats in Scotland has left one man dead and several injured.
Emergency crews were called to Kellie Place in Alloa, Clackmannanshire, at around 6pm on Sunday after reports of an explosion.
One man, who was inside the property at the time, was killed in the blast.
He was pronounced dead at the scene, with formal identification yet to take place.
The morning after the explosion. Pic: PA
Pic: PA
Three other people from the same block of flats – a 72-year-old man, a 19-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman – were taken to Forth Valley Royal Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
Part of the roof of the property was ripped off by the blast and a gaping hole has been left in the first floor of the building.
The explosion prompted Police Scotland to declare a major incident and close a number of roads to allow for the multi-agency response.
Residents of the block of flats were sent to the local town hall which opened as a respite centre
The explosion prompted a multi-agency response in Alloa
Chief Inspector Kat Thompson, area commander, said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened and we continue to work with partner agencies.
“Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and everyone affected in the local community.
“We would like to thank the local community for their cooperation and support and officers remain in the area.”
Gas and electricity workers secure the facilities
In an update just before 11pm on Sunday, police said road closures were being lifted, but further gas and electrical work on the building may need to happen.
Alloa Town Hall was opened as a respite centre for occupants of the flats while work was undertaken onsite.
Clackmannanshire Council said all those affected managed to find shelter with friends and family overnight.
The local authority said it will continue to assist those who are currently unable to return to their homes.
On Monday, engineers from gas distribution network Scottish Gas Networks (SGN) were among those still at the scene.
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Keith Brown, MSP for the Clackmannanshire and Dunblane constituency, said: “My immediate thoughts are of sympathy with the family and friends of the man who has died, and to send best wishes for full and speedy recoveries to those injured.
“As ever, in situations like this, many thanks are due to the emergency services for the way in which they have responded.
“There will be understandable concerns, particularly amongst residents of neighbouring properties, about the cause of this explosion and the extent of the damage to other homes.
“I know that the relevant authorities will be working hard to provide information, reassurance and assistance as quickly and efficiently as they can.”
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