Gas Explosion Destroys Edinburgh Home Killing 84-Year-Old Man and Injuring 2

Emergency services were called to a property on Baberton Mains Avenue at 10:30 pm on 1 December following reports of a blast.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is leading an investigation into the cause of the explosion.

They later confirmed it was unrelated to the gas network supply, SGN, but related to the “internal gas installation.”

A Scottish fire and rescue service spokeswoman said two homes were affected.

Investigations found James Smith,84, locally known as “Jimmy” tragically died in the gas explosion.

However, two people were rescued from the scene by Neighbours. They found a 43-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man and rushed them to the hospital for treatment.

A witness said, “The area outside the house at Baberton Mains Avenue was strewn with rubble, and there was a smell of gas.”

An HSE spokesperson said, “Our thoughts are with the friends and family of the man who sadly lost his life.”

Images of the scene show the building in pieces.

Police said, “Emergency services are at the scene, and we would advise people to avoid the area at this time.”

SGN Networks, which manages the gas distribution networks, also voiced their condolences.

An SGN spokesperson said, “Our deepest sympathies are with the family of the 84-year-old man who tragically died in this incident. Our thoughts also remain with the couple injured as a result of the explosion.

“We initially worked with the emergency services to ensure the immediate vicinity was made safe in our role as the gas emergency service.

“We’re working with Edinburgh Council to offer support to residents evacuated following the explosion.

“We’d like to reassure the local community that their gas supply is safe to use,” they added.

The hero who rescued the woman from the collapsed building, Ross Aitchison, launched a fundraising page for the couple who sadly lost their home, raising over £20,000.

Several homes were evacuated following the explosion, with roads closed as the investigation continues.