Dad of teen pulled from rubble after 'gas explosion' says he's lucky to be alive

14 March 2023 , 17:28

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Ethan Bennett, 14, was pulled from the rubble of his family home after a suspected gas explosion (Image: @carolynharris24)

The dad of a teenage boy pulled from the rubble of their home after a massive explosion said his son is lucky to be alive.

Anthony Bennett, who returned to the scene of the blast today, said 14-year-old Ethan has already been discharged from hospital but wife Claire is still receiving treatment.

The suspected gas explosion yesterday at 11.20am flattened the family's house in Swansea, Wales, and damaged neighbouring properties.

South Wales Police confirmed on Monday evening the body of a man had also been pulled from the debris in Morriston.

He was formally named today as 68-year-old Brian Davies.

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Claire suffered six broken ribs and a "nasty gash" to her head, according to Anthony.

Anthony Bennett spoke at the scene of the explosion today (bbc)

He told BBC Wales: "Ethan just remembers the explosion going and him being thrown up against the ceiling and hitting [it].

"Next thing he knows he seems to be outside. Not sure if he lost consciousness or not. Part of the roof was under him and part of the roof was on top of him.

"The guy who lives a couple of doors down ran across to check on Claire and then he dragged Ethan out. He carried Ethan off the roof to get him out.

The blast left the house completely flattened (Robert Dalling / WalesOnline)

"They are so lucky to come out of it."

Anthony went on to say his wife is okay but "in a lot of pain", adding that his son is "struggling" to come to terms with what happened but is physically alright.

Sioned Williams, Member of the Senedd for the South Wales West region, said Brian had been described locally as "very well liked" and "such a friendly person".

Investigations and clean up continue at the scene (WalesOnline/Rob Browne)

A third person was also taken to hospital - understood to be a postman - who has also since been discharged.

Carolyn Harris, Labour MP for Swansea East, said he was sitting in his van when the blast happened and "unfortunately he got caught by some debris".

She added that the local sorting office said the postman had suffered burns and cuts to his face but is now home with his family.

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Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the blast.

Ryan Merrifield