Boy, 7, dies after 'devastating explosion' in residential street in Newcastle

Superintendent Darren Adams of Northumbria Police said six others were taken to hospital "with varying injuries" after the blast and subsequent fire in Violet Close.

A number of others were evacuated from their homes after emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 1am today.

A spokesman for Northern Gas Networks said its engineers are on site and it is "supporting the emergency services during this ongoing incident".

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lynsey McVay, from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said six flats had been "badly affected, two of which suffered the main brunt of the explosion".

The blast tore through a row of six properties divided into two flats each.

Drone footage shows how six flats in the middle of the building appear to have been completely destroyed by the explosion and fire, while piles of debris could be seen on the street outside.

Ms McVay told reporters that all fires have now been extinguished and firefighters continued to search the buildings to ensure that all persons are accounted for.

A fire service van marked "search dogs" was parked near the scene in the Benwell area of the city.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Adams has said an investigation into the cause of the blast is under way.

He added that a cordon was likely to be in place "for some time".

The superintendent told reporters: "It is with great sadness that I stand in front of you today following the tragic death of a young child.

"As a result of the incident in the early hours of this morning, a seven-year-old boy has sadly passed away.

"Despite the efforts of the emergency services, he tragically died at the scene.

"This is a truly devastating outcome.

"I have no doubt that the people of Elswick and Benwell, and our wider region, will want to join me in extending their thoughts and condolences to family and friends. The loss and pain they must be suffering is unimaginable."

He added: "Inquiries are still at a very early stage and in the coming hours and days, we will continue to piece together what has happened so we can provide answers to the family as well as the wider community."

Meanwhile, vehicle recovery workers have taken away several damaged cars away from the scene on low-loaders.

A family friend of some of the victims said there had been a "devastating explosion".

Andy Riches, a safety steward at Newcastle United, has set up an online fundraiser in aid of the occupants of one of the homes affected.

He is friends with the grandfather of a couple with two children who live in one of the flats, and said: "They have lost everything."

-SKY NEWS