Man injured in gas explosion at Longridge home, neighbours evacuated

A gas explosion occurred in Longridge, near Preston, at approximately 10:30 am on September 1st, resulting in significant destruction to a residential property. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, where they discovered a man with severe burn injuries who had managed to escape the house before their arrival. He was transported to the hospital in critical condition, while two other individuals sustained minor injuries during the incident. The explosion was described by local residents as a 'gut-wrenching bang,' with reports of windows being damaged in nearby homes. In response to the explosion, authorities evacuated a small number of surrounding properties to ensure the safety of the residents. Fire crews were expected to remain on-site for several hours to manage the situation and assess the damage. Lancashire Police confirmed that a joint investigation with the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service would be initiated to determine the cause of the explosion. The police urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of understanding the circumstances that led to this dangerous event. As the investigation unfolds, the local community remains on alert, with emergency services working diligently to secure the area and provide assistance to those affected. The incident highlights the potential dangers associated with gas-related incidents and the critical need for safety measures in residential areas.