Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Responds to Fatal Bedford Explosion

On Saturday (19 October), Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to a significant explosion and subsequent fire at a residential property in Cleat Hill, Bedford, which tragically resulted in one fatality and left another individual with serious injuries.

The initial emergency call was received at 07:37hrs, with the first appliance from Bedford arriving on the scene within six minutes. A total of four Rescue Pumps, an Aerial Platform, a Hazmat Unit, and an Incident Command Unit were deployed, with support from one Hazmat officer and two duty officers. Appliances and crews from Bedford, Kempston, Harrold, Stopsley, and Leighton Buzzard stations were called to assist with the incident. BFRS’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) and Detection, Identification and Monitoring (DIM) teams have supported efforts at the incident location over the weekend.

Bedfordshire Police are controlling the scene and leading the investigation into the cause of the explosion. Residents in the surrounding area are being advised to keep windows open, and the public is asked to avoid the Cleat Hill area while emergency services continue their work.

Bedford Borough Council is providing support those evacuated from their homes. Police Officers are present to provide guidance and arrange further assistance for anyone affected.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the individual who sadly lost their life and the person currently receiving treatment in hospital. 

Anyone in need of emotional support is encouraged to reach out to the Samaritans helpline at 116 123, which is available 24/7.