On the morning of February 28, 2024, a quiet neighborhood in Fishpool near St Luke's Primary School in Bury was disrupted by a devastating incident—a suspected gas explosion that unfolded on Nelson Street.
The incident left a 70-year-old woman seriously injured, prompting a swift and coordinated response from emergency services.
The aftermath of the explosion impacted the school, forcing its closure due to deteriorating conditions caused by the incident.
Chaos Unleashed: Explosion Near St Luke's Primary School
At approximately 7:52 AM on February 28, 2024, chaos erupted near St Luke's Primary School in Bury when a suspected gas explosion occurred at a property on Nelson Street in Fishpool.
The explosion left a 70-year-old woman seriously injured, leading to her immediate transportation to the hospital.
Emergency services, including three ambulances and six fire engines, rushed to the scene to address the unfolding crisis.
Evacuation and School Closure: Impact on St Luke's Primary
The gravity of the situation became evident as students and staff at St Luke's Primary School were swiftly evacuated.
The suspected gas explosion, just yards away from the school premises, prompted the closure of the institution.
Councillor Tamoor Tariq, representing Redvales Ward, shared on social media that the decision to close the school was influenced by the deteriorating conditions, particularly the impact on the school's electricity supply.
Community in Shock: Local Reactions and Concerns
Shocked and concerned locals gathered on the streets surrounding the affected area, watching as flames engulfed the terraced property on Nelson Street.
The Bury Council issued a warning to residents to keep their windows closed due to the significant amount of smoke generated by the fire.
Footage from the scene captured the intensity of the blaze, amplifying the distress of the community.
Emergency Response and Neighborhood Impact
Emergency services, including fire engines and ambulances, worked tirelessly to contain the fire.
Devon Street, Gigg Lane, and Nelson Street were cordoned off, causing disruptions in the immediate vicinity.
Councillor Tariq reported that neighboring properties were also damaged by the fire, necessitating residents to seek refuge in the houses of friends, family, and neighbors.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson provided official information, stating that a 200-meter cordon had been established around the property and nearby homes.
The spokesperson confirmed that a woman in her 70s had sustained serious injuries and was promptly taken to the hospital.
The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service emphasized the collaborative efforts with the police and ambulance services while urging residents to avoid the area.
