A multi-agency investigation is underway today (Wednesday 18 September) to establish the cause of a blast that occurred in Ballymena on Tuesday night.
Emergency services rushed to the scene of the incident at a block of flats in the Orkney Drive area of the Ballykeel II estate, in the town at shortly before 10:00pm.
Local eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang before a fire looked to take hold in the communal hall and stairway of the block of flats. Electricity was impacted with a number of homes losing power for a period of time.
The blast caused extensive damage within the property, with blowing off doors to the six flats, and windows blown out causing glass to be strewn across the street you to approximate 20m away. A large hole was also blown out in the roof of the block.
A resident in one of the flats was in bed at the time of the blast and recalls the bed lifting off the floor.
Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) attended the scene but it is understood no one was seriously injured. Residents were left badly shook up and in shock, and have been unable to return to their homes.
Emergency services at the scene of the explosion in Ballymena on Tuesday night.
The area around the properties, including the road remain closed off on Wednesday afternoon as PSNI, NI Fire Service and forensic team work to establish the cause.
Police in Ballymena are appealing for information following the report of an explosion which occurred
Inspector Hewat said:
“Shortly before 10pm last night, it was reported to police that there had been an explosion at a block of flats.
“When officers attended, a scene was established and all occupants in the building were evacuated.
“Our colleagues from NIFRS also attended to extinguish the fire at the property, where a considerable amount of damage had been caused inside one flat.
“No injuries were reported and the scene remains in place for further review.
“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine what happened and police would appeal to anyone with any information to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1876 17/09/24."
Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”
It is understood a full examination of the structure of the building will have to be undertaken to ensure the property is safe, and repair a carried out before residents will be able to return.
We will provide further updates when available.
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