PICTURES have revealed the devastation after a suspected gas explosion left a house completely destroyed and two people in hospital.
Fresh daytime images taken just 24 hours after the horror blast on Whickham Street in Roker, show how tiles have been blown from the roof and interior completely exposed.
Today, dozens of staff from Gentoo, Northern Gas Networks, Northumbria Police have been on the scene as work to raze the affected property is underway.
Read more: Man who lives next door to destroyed home fears whole 'block' may be torn down
At around 12pm, contractors could be seen lifting equipment into place as much of the debris was left untouched since the blast at just before 4pm yesterday (February 15).
Northumbria Police has so far confirmed two men rescued remain in hospital - with one man's condition deteriorating and critical, but stable.
A spokesperson for the force said: “At 3.45pm yesterday we received a report of a suspected gas explosion at an address on Whickham Street, Sunderland.
“Two men were taken to hospital. One man’s condition has since deteriorated and he is currently in a critical but stable condition.”
Read more: Man 'deteriorates' after explosion in Whickham Street in Sunderland
Meanwhile, Gentoo who own a number of the properties has said it is doing "everything" it can to support residents affected including finding them alternative accommodation.
A spokesperson said: "Gentoo was made aware of a major incident today at 3:45pm that occurred at two Gentoo flats on Whickham Street in Roker.
“Reports indicate this may have been a gas explosion, however investigations are ongoing, and we are cooperating with the emergency services and the local authority.
“We are doing everything that we can to offer as much support as possible to tenants, including providing temporary accommodation.
Read more: As it happened - Sunderland home destroyed after explosion
“The safety of our residents is our priority and we have staff at the scene offering support.
"We are clearly concerned for the wellbeing for the two confirmed casualties that have been taken to local hospitals.
"Our thoughts are with the casualties and their families at this difficult time.”
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