Sadly two people have been confirmed dead at the scene of an explosion and building collapse on King Street in Southall.

Station Commander Paul Morgan said:

“Our crews have search the property using specialist equipment including the use of a USAR dogs. We can confirm that sadly two people have died at the scene.

“It has been a painstaking and protracted incident with firefighters working systematically to stabilise the building and search for people involved. Operations have been concluded for the evening and will restart in the morning.

The explosion caused substantial damage to the shop and structural damage throughout.

“In the initial stages firefighters rescued four adults and one child were rescued at the rear of the property using a ladder. A further fourteen adults and two children self evacuated from surrounding properties.”

The Brigade was called at 0638. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters Southall, Hayes, Heston, Ealing and Feltham fire stations were at the scene.