Bury explosion: Woman’s body found after house collapses
Two people, including child, were also taken to hospital as cause is investigated
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A woman’s body has been pulled from the rubble of a house that collapsed following a late-night explosion in Bury.
The unnamed woman was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency workers found her, police said on Thursday morning.
Two others – another woman and a child – were rushed to hospital following the blast in the Greater Manchester town’s Ramsbottom area at around 9.20pm on Wednesday night.
Five other homes were evacuated.
"There was this huge noise, like a bomb had been dropped in the middle of the street,” one resident, Daniel Peace, said.
Speaking to Sky News, he added: “I expected to look out the window and see a crater or something, it was unbelievable.”
As of Thursday morning, it remained unclear exactly what caused the explosion, although residents reported a strong smell of gas in the air throughout the night.
Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council, said in a tweet: “The council and emergency services are currently supporting residents. The community response has been incredible as always. Thank you.”
Police, fire crews and ambulances all attended the scene in the area’s East View.
North West Ambulance Service said one woman and a younger female were taken to hospital. Neither of them are thought to be seriously injured.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said it had sent three fire engines and a number of support units to the scene.
Electricity North West said it had cut power supplies to 60 properties following the incident.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments