Three people killed and others missing after explosion in Jersey
The explosion happened in the island's capital St Helier early this morning
Last updated 10th Dec 2022
Three people have died and several others are missing following an explosion and fire at a block of flats in Jersey, police have said.
Chief officer of the States of Jersey Police, Robin Smith, told a press conference that "a dozen" residents are still missing after the incident in St Helier on the south of the island.
The force also said in a statement: "Following the explosion this morning at Haut du Mont, Pier Road, a number of residents are still missing.
"Emergency services are working at the scene and have commenced a surface search of the site.
"Relatives are being contacted by Family Liaison Officers."
Police said the fire has been extinguished, but emergency services are still "carrying out significant work" at the scene, which is cordoned off, and people have been asked to avoid the area
Press conferences have been held by Jersey Police and other emergency service teams throughout the day. Crews have also been updating social media.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service have confirmed they are sending four specialist firefighters from their urban search and rescue team to Jersey to assist.
Between 20 and 30 people evacuated from the area have been taken to St Helier Town Hall. Search and rescue teams remain at the scene as enquiries into what happened continue.