The man remains in serious condition after the gas explosion

Emergency services have left the scene of a gas explosion five days after a man was seriously injured in Cornwall. Police advised locals to evacuate their homes and set up a 100m cordon in the Drakewalls area, near Gunnislake.

On Sunday (May 12), emergency services were called to a property where explosive materials and suspected chemicals were found. Police, ambulance, fire and bomb squads were called to the scene, where a man was pulled from the wreckage of a caravan shortly after 6.45pm with serious injuries.

Specialists worked to ensure that items found at the scene, believed to be explosive materials and chemicals, were safe. This work has now been completed and the cordon which was in place has been lifted.

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A 46-year-old man remains in hospital receiving treatment for life-changing injuries. He was arrested on suspicion of offenses under the Explosive Substances Act 1883, but has since been released on police bail until 24 May.

Chief Inspector Julian Pezzani said: “Following the initial report to police on Sunday, extensive searches and investigations were underway in relation to a number of items that were found at the scene.

“We have worked with a number of specialists and have now dropped our cordon and completed our initial response to the scene.

“The impact of emergency presence in a community cannot be underestimated and I am grateful for the patience and support shown by local residents this week.”

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