Three people have been bailed in connection with a devastating house explosion in Newcastle that killed two people, including a seven-year-old boy. 

Emergency services were called to Violet Close in Benwell on Wednesday, October 16, after a blast decimated three homes in the early hours of the morning. 

The explosion tragically killed two people - seven-year-old Archie York, who was described as having a "heart of gold", and "best dad in the world" Jason Laws, 34.

Earlier this week, Northumbria Police confirmed that three men – two in their 30s and one in their 50s – were arrested each on suspicion of two counts of manslaughter and one of the production of a class B drug, namely cannabis.

Archie YorkArchie York (Image: Northumbria Police)

Now, the force has confirmed that the three people have been released on police bail pending further enquiries. 

Police is continuing to ask people to avoid speculation surrounding the incident, both online and in the community. 

As previously reported, Archie's parents Katherine and Robbie last month released a heartbreaking tribute to their son, saying: “We are so broken as a family but Archie will live on in his baby brother Finley who is the spitting image of him.

“He might have been small but he had a heart of gold, everyone loved him.”

Tributes to Jason Laws online also previously said he was "the best dad in the world" - adding that he had an "infectious smile" that "could light up a room".

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Those with information which could assist the police investigation should complete the relevant form at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/NATIONAL23Y12-PO1

For those unable to contact the Force via this way they can call 101. Please quote log number NP-20241016-0028.

You can also provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.