Blast that injured mum, 31, and her two kids, 2 and 5, caused by BBQ gas canisters exploding in summer sun
A BLAST that left a 31-year-old mum and her boys aged just two and five seriously injured was caused by BBQ canisters exploding in the summer sun, it was revealed today.
Jessica Williams was rushed to hospital after the huge explosion ripped through her home in South Wales last week.
The mum now remains in hospital in a critical condition while her sons, aged five and two, were airlifted 80 miles to hospital and remain in a serious condition.
And police today revealed the “most likely” cause of the terrifying explosion was ageing LPG gas canisters – usually used for BBQs and caravans – kept outside the house.
A spokeswoman for South Wales Police said: “The cause of the explosion has not been deemed suspicious and the most likely explanation is a combination of ageing LPG gas equipment and environmental conditions.”
LPG stands for Liquid Pressure Gas – meaning gas that is stored in cylinders or bottles and not supplied through mains pipes.
Neighbours had last week rushed to the scene in Seven Sisters, near Neath Port Talbot, after the massive explosion and hearing screams.
Jess was found lying behind her fridge freezer and was rushed to nearby Morriston Hospital. Her partner Mike David, 33, was not at home.
And her family said the young mother’s condition had deteriorated after she developed a kidney infection.
They said: “They have put her on dialysis to help the kidneys, 3 lots of antibiotics and are keeping her on the ventilator.
“She wasn’t producing white cells but now they are getting back to a better level.
“We are all very tired and know you are all thinking of and praying for Jessica.”
STREET HORROR
An investigation into the cause of the explosion carried out by GTC, an independent utility infrastructure and networks provider, has shown that it does not appear “to be gas network related”.
Neighbours were able to return to their homes after structural surveys deemed them safe.
But three homes have been badly affected and temporary accomodation has been provided.
South Wales Police detective inspector Gareth Eynon said: “This was a tragic incident and our thoughts remain with the family.
“The police investigation has now concluded there was no criminal cause of the explosion.
“We would like to again thank the community for their support during our investigation.”
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Neath MP Christina Rees, said: “I am pleased that nearby properties have now undergone structural surveys and the residents whose homes who have been deemed safe have now returned.
“I am working closely with the council’s social services team to arrange temporary accommodation for those who need it.”
Almost £20,000 has now been raised for the family through Go Fund Me.