Man charged with manslaughter and cannabis production after fatal house explosion in Benwell
Reporter Tom Barton has been at Newcastle Magistrates' Court
A man has been charged with manslaughter and cannabis production after an explosion in Newcastle that killed two people, including a seven-year-old boy.
Northumbria Police said Reece Galbraith, 33, of Gateshead, has been charged with two counts of manslaughter, production of cannabis, and being concerned in the supply of cannabis.
He appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (5 December) where he entered no pleas and spoke only to confirm his name and address.
Galbraith, who was wearing a white winter coat, was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on 7 January.
Three men previously arrested as part of the investigation – two in their 30s and one in his 50s – remain on police bail pending further inquiries.
Seven-year-old Archie York and Jason Laws, 35, died in the explosion which destroyed several homes.
Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a truly tragic incident in which two people died.
“As a result of our ongoing investigation, a man has now been charged.
“We recognise the strength of feeling around what has happened and would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.
“Our inquiries also continue and we would further ask anyone with information who is yet to come forward to contact us as a soon as possible.”
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