Man charged with killing seven-year-old boy and man in massive house explosion

Police have charged a 33-year-old man in connection with a massive house explosion in Newcastle earlier this year, which claimed the lives of a seven-year-old boy and a 35-year-old man.

Archie York and Jason Laws died in a devastating house explosion on Violet Close in the Benwell and Elswick area of Newcastle, which occurred in the early hours of 16 October.

Police later arrested a trio of men in relation to the explosion, two in their 30s and one in his 50s, who are currently on police bail pending further inquiries.

Northumbria Police have since announced that a fourth individual, a 33-year-old man named Reece Galbraith, has been charged with manslaughter and cannabis production in connection with the case.

Two people died and six more were injured in the house explosion (PA)

Galbraith's charges are two counts of manslaughter, production of cannabis and being concerned in the supply of cannabis.

Police said he was arrested in connection with the explosion yesterday (4 December) and is due to appear before Newcastle Magistrate's Court today (5 December).

Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith of Northumbria Police said: "This was a truly tragic incident in which two people died. As a result of our ongoing investigation, a man has now been charged.

“We recognise the strength of feeling around what has happened and would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.

“Our inquiries also continue and we would further ask anyone with information who is yet to come forward to contact us as a soon as possible.”

Seven-year-old Archie York was killed in the explosion, along with 35-year-old Jason Laws (PA)

The explosion affected six flats in the early hours of 16 October, with seven-year-old Archie York dying at the scene and Jason's body being found later underneath debris.

Six other people were injured in the blast, five adults and a child, and all besides one were soon afterwards released from hospital.

Archie's family said he was a 'loving boy, with a cheeky little grin on his face all of the time', while the brother of Jason Laws said he was the 'best dad in the world' and 'the best big brother I could ask for'.

Police said that anyone with information which could assist the investigation could use their Public Portal. Otherwise, they could call the police on 101 and quote log number NP-20241016-0028 if they had information about the case.

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