Suspected drug lab explodes near children’s playground

15 September 2024 , 06:04

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Suspected drug lab explodes near children’s playground

A house was seriously damaged when a suspected drug lab blew up beside a children’s playground in Burnley this afternoon.

The explosion shattered the downstairs windows of the Brunswick Street property, in Lancashire, shortly before 1.44pm today.

One man, who suffered minor burns, was rescued from the building before being arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug and criminal damage to a dwelling.

He remains in custody, according to a police spokesperson.

In a statement, they said: ‘Our officers have attended and found the downstairs of a property had suffered significant damage but there is no ongoing risk to the public.

‘A man has been treated for minor burn injuries at the scene.

‘He has since been arrested on suspicion of producing a controlling drug and criminal damage to a dwelling and remains in custody.

‘Enquiries are ongoing to identify another person who also has suspected minor burn injuries, but who had left the scene prior to police arrival.

‘A small number of residents have been evacuated as a precaution.’

The house sits on the edge of a grassy area, which includes a basketball court and a children’s playground.

Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service said: ‘Two fire engines from Burnley and the Urban and Search and Rescue Team from Bamber Bridge and Chorley were called to an explosion on Brunswick Street, Burnley.

‘Firefighters used four breathing apparatus and one hose reel, and they rescued one person from the property. A joint police and fire investigation is underway.’

Sophia Martinez