Man charged over Newcastle house explosion that killed seven-year-old boy

Reece Galbraith charged with two counts of manslaughter and production of cannabis after blast killed two people

Emergency services at the scene at Violet Close in Benwell, Newcastle (PA) (PA Wire)

A man has been charged with manslaughter and the production of cannabis after a house explosion in Newcastle that killed two people, including a seven-year-old boy.

Reece Galbraith, 33, is due to appear to appear at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, Northumbria Police said.

Three other men arrested as part of the investigation into the blast on Violet Close – two in their 30s and one in his 50s – remain on police bail pending further enquiries.

Three men previously arrested as part of the investigation – two in their 30s and one in his 50s – remain on police bail pending further inquiries.

Seven-year-old Archie York and Jason “Jay” Laws, 35, died in the explosion.

Seven-year-old Archie York was one of two people killed in the blast (Family members have paid tribute to 7-year-old Archie York)

Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a truly tragic incident in which two people died.

“As a result of our ongoing investigation, a man has now been charged.

“We recognise the strength of feeling around what has happened and would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.

“Our inquiries also continue and we would further ask anyone with information who is yet to come forward to contact us as a soon as possible.”

More follows...