Select a region
It is "reasonable to conclude" that a recent explosion at Mont Pinel occurred due to the ignition of flammable gas inside a house, according to initial investigations.
The States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service today confirmed that the Health and Safety Inspectorate has completed its on-site investigation following the incident at Mont Pinel.
Emergency services were called to the area on the evening of Wednesday 26 June when an "unidentified suspected explosion and structural collapse" necessitated the rescue of two adults and two children from a property, and the evacuation of nearby residents.
Pictured: The children's bedroom was left exposed by the suspected explosion.
Today, the Fire Service confirmed that "it is reasonable to conclude that an explosion occurred due to ignition of a mixture of a flammable gas and air that accumulated within the property".
Residents of Elizabeth Villas are now able to access their properties and begin to return to their homes.
The statement continued: "This determination forms only part of the initial investigations, therefore no further comment can be made at this time.
"The Health and Safety Inspectorate’s investigation, determining why this incident took place, is ongoing."
As a result of the findings, gas supplier Island Energy said they are conducting an additional survey of their network.
A statement issued today said: “We acknowledge the results of the SJFRS investigation and continue to work with the relevant authorities regarding the incident in the vicinity of Le Mont Pinel.
“We are unable to comment further until we receive the forensic results of the Health and Safety Inspectorate (HSI) report."
It continued: “As part of our broader safety programme in Jersey, we are conducting an additional survey of the network.
“Households and business customers will soon receive a letter informing them of a visit, explaining why we are conducting the surveys, and the procedure.”
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham added: "We would like to thank the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service and Health and Safety Inspectorate for their investigations into the explosion at Mont Pinel.
"Our thoughts remain with all those impacted, and the Government continues to provide support and guidance to all affected by the incident."
Follow Express for updates...
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.