Major update on massive house explosion that killed man and boy aged seven

There has been a major update on the massive house explosion that killed a man and a boy aged seven.

Archie York and 35-year-old Jason Laws died in the blast in Violet Close in Benwell, Newcastle, on 16 October.

Three men have now been arrested on suspicion of two counts of manslaughter and the production of cannabis. One in his 50s and two in their 30s, they remain in custody.

The explosion tore through six flats in the early hours of the morning as the young boy died at the scene and Laws' body was later found underneath debris. Six others were also injured as a result.

The blast took place on 16 October (PA)

Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: "This has been a truly tragic incident which resulted in the loss of two lives. As a result of our ongoing enquiries, three men have today been arrested in connection with the explosion.

"Our investigation will remain ongoing as we seek to provide answers to what has happened. We would continue to ask people to avoid speculation surrounding this incident both online and in the community.

"Anyone with any information which could assist our enquiries should contact us as soon as possible if they have not already done so. We would also like to thank people for their continued support and cooperation."

Abbie York, Archie's aunt, called him as a 'loving boy, with a cheeky little grin on his face all of the time'.

Three men have been arrested (PA)

On Facebook, she described him as 'beautiful, funny and caring'.

She added: "Archie was my nephew and the most beautiful, funny and caring little boy and his name deserves to be shouted from the rooftops! We all love you so much little man, you didn’t deserve this.”

Laws' brother also paid tribute to the man on Facebook, calling him the 'best dad in the world, and said: "You have been the best big brother I could ask for."

At the time, Superintendent Darren Adams said: “It is with great sadness that I stand in front of you today following the tragic death of a young child.

“As a result of the incident in the early hours of this morning, a seven-year-old boy has sadly passed away.

“Despite the efforts of the emergency services, he tragically died at the scene.

“This is a truly devastating outcome.”