Newcastle explosion: Man who died named locally as Jason Laws

Emergency services were called to Violet Close in Benwell, Newcastle, on Wednesday (October 16) after a house exploded just before 1am, decimating three homes. 

Tragically, a seven-year-old boy and a man believed to be aged in his thirties, both died during the incident, which saw six people taken to hospital.

On Thursday, Archie York, seven, was named locally as the young boy who died during the incident, as Northumbria Police confirmed that a second body had tragically been recovered.  

Today (Friday, October 18), the man who died has been named locally as Jason Laws, who has been described online as "the best dad in the world." 

Two people died in the incident (Image: PA)

Facebook has since been flooded with tributes to Jason, who had an "infectious smile" that "could light up a room". 

Supt Darren Adams, from Northumbria Police, previously said: “Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the two people who have tragically lost their lives.

“Specialist officers are supporting their loved ones and we would urge everyone to respect their privacy at this time.

 “We are working with our partners as our investigation continues. For several reasons, this is complex and time-consuming, not least due to the level of damage which has been caused.

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• Second body found after explosion in Newcastle killed child
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“As always, we would ask people not to speculate about what has happened both online and within the community.

“As we have previously made clear and I would reiterate now, we are committed to providing answers to what has happened.

“I would like to thank the community for their continued support and cooperation at this incredibly tragic time.”