Avonmouth blast: Four killed in ‘major incident’ at water treatment plant

Four people were killed in a large explosion at a water treatment area in Avonmouth, police confirmed.

A major incident was declared at Wessex Water’s Bristol water recycling center in Avonmouth, following reports of a “major explosion” at 11:22 am.

This afternoon, police said three Wessex Water employees and a contractor had died as a result of the blast.

Another person suffered injuries that were not life-threatening.

The families of those who died have been informed, Chief Inspector Mark Runacres said at a press conference at the scene this afternoon.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud roar, seeing people running and “at least 10 ambulances” running towards what has been declared by the police as a “serious incident”.

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Avon and Somerset police said investigations are underway into the exact cause of the blast.

Chief Inspector Mark Runacres said there was no ongoing threat to the public.

A spokesman for the force said: “An explosion involving one of the chemical tanks is believed to have occurred at Wessex Water’s water recycling center in Bristol.

“Subsequently, the fire service conducted a rescue operation involving five aircraft and two turntable crews, and we can confirm that there have been several casualties.”

“A full investigation will be conducted into the incident.”

Chief Inspector Mark Runacres said: “Officers remain at the scene and are likely to be for some time as we work together with other agencies to address this important incident.

“A cordon has been established and we advise members of the public to avoid the area at this time when possible to allow emergency services to do their job.

“Police investigations into what exactly happened are at a very early stage and are continuing.”

A Wiltshire Air Ambulance spokesperson confirmed that crews did not take any patients to hospital.

He said: “Wiltshire Air Ambulance was called to an incident in Avonmouth, Bristol at 11.20am.

“We assist in our helicopter and rapid response vehicle, with our intensive care paramedics assisting on the scene.”