Bristol Explosion Claims Two Lives, Police Reduce Cordon, Residents Return Home

Residents evacuated from a Frenchay, Bristol, residential area after an explosion claimed two lives and injured three others have been cleared to return home. Police were dispatched to a property on Sterncourt Road at approximately 06:30 BST on Sunday following reports of a domestic incident, just minutes before the blast occurred.

A man and a woman were confirmed deceased, whilst another man, a woman, and a child received medical treatment for minor injuries. Avon and Somerset Police have characterised the incident as a "suspicious" explosion but have not yet disclosed its cause. The cordon has been significantly reduced, allowing "almost all" residents to re-enter their properties; Bristol City Council is assisting those still affected.

Superintendent Matt Ebbs confirmed that enquiries had been conducted at a Speedwell property linked to the deceased man. Police assert they are not searching for additional suspects, but the investigation remains "complex and sensitive." The house at the epicentre of the explosion remains cordoned off, featuring boarded-up windows and a forensics tent. The British Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit conducted precautionary searches on Sunday. Police reported no substantial damage to surrounding properties.