Tributes Pour In for Man Killed in Suspected Gas Explosion at Bungalow

A man named Steve Woodward has died after a powerful explosion destroyed his home in Newton Longville, a village near Milton Keynes in England. The blast happened on a Sunday morning at around 9:45 a.m. on Cobb Hall Road. Emergency services rushed to the scene after reports of an explosion, a fire, and a collapsed building. Woodward, who was in his 60s, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries but passed away a few days later. Police and local community members have shared their sadness over his death.

Authorities believe the explosion was caused by a gas leak, though the investigation is still ongoing. Thames Valley Police and the Health and Safety Executive are working together to find out exactly what happened. Detective Inspector Philip Turner-Robson said, 'This is a tragic development and our thoughts are with the man's family and friends at this extremely difficult time.' Police are asking anyone with information to contact them using the reference number URN 660 and the date of the explosion.

The blast was so powerful that it sent bricks, roof tiles, smoke, and flames high into the air. Ring doorbell cameras in the neighborhood captured the terrifying moment when debris flew onto nearby homes. Several houses were damaged, and many residents had to leave their homes right away. A local pub called The Crooked Billet opened its doors to help people who had been forced out, becoming a safe gathering place for the community.

Friends and neighbors remembered Woodward warmly on social media. Newton Longville Parish Council wrote, 'Our deepest condolences go to Steve's family and friends. He will clearly be very much missed by this community.' Wing Sports and Social Club, a bar in the nearby town of Leighton Buzzard, also shared a heartfelt tribute. Their message read, 'R.I.P., our Steve. Forever in our hearts, always loved and never forgotten.'

Local leaders also spoke out about the tragedy. Callum Bradley Anderson, the Labour Member of Parliament for Buckingham and Bletchley, said he was 'deeply saddened' to hear of Woodward's death. He called the incident 'an absolute tragedy' and said his thoughts were with Steve's family, friends, and everyone in the community affected by the explosion. He also urged anyone with useful information to get in touch with Thames Valley Police.