Sussex house explosion: latest

Firefighters have been called to reports of a suspected gas explosion in Sussex.

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New picture released of Sussex house explosion

This picture was taken a short time after an explosion in Sompting in West Sussex Credit: Ben Hornbuckle

The aftermath of an explosion which destroyed a property is Sussex has been caught on camera.

Resident Ben Hornbuckle took this picture of the property in Hillrise Avenue, Sompting.

A 54-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after with intent to endanger life after the explosion yesterday afternoon.

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Explosion investigation continues

Sussex Police are investigating an explosion at a house on Hillrise Avenue in Sompting. It happened at 4.15pm on Thursday 20th September.

A man in his fifties was pulled from the burning property by passers-by. He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton to be treated for shock.

The incident led to the road being closed at its junction with Hillbarn Avenue. West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service extinguished the fire within an hour. Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

A 52-year-old local man has been arreste don suspicion of committing arson with intent to endanger life.

"We believe this is related to a domestic incident at the address and there is no threat or risk to any member of the public. We are investigating the circumstances which led up to the fire at this property."

– Detective Inspector Rob Walker, Sussex Police

Man rescued from explosion

A man in his 50s was pulled from a burning building in Sompting by four members of the public who were passing by.

The rescue follows reports of an explosion at a house in Hillrise Avenue, today at 4.15pm.

The man was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. It is not known what injuries he has at this stage. No one else was injured and no one was evacuated.

The road was closed with the junction of Hillbarn Avenue while West Sussex Fire and Rescue dealt with the fire, which is now out.

Three fire pumps are at the scene.

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