Hinckley Road to remain closed following explosion

Hinckley Road in Leicester is expected to remain closed for most of the day, after five people were killed as a result of an explosion.

The explosion happened at a shop at about 7pm on Sunday 25 February.

Five people have now been confirmed dead. Five others were taken to hospital, one of whom remains in a critical condition.

The cause of the blast in unknown, but it is not terror-related.

Leicestershire Police have say it is likely that Hinckley Road will remain closed in both directions from the junctions of Woodville Road and Westcotes Drive for most or all of the day. Drivers are advised to avoid the area.