Two adults have died following a suspicious explosion at a house in the Frenchay area of Bristol, with authorities declaring a major incident and deploying bomb disposal units to the scene.
Details of the Incident
The explosion was reported at a property on Sterncourt Road at approximately 6:30 AM on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Emergency services, including armed police, responded promptly. Residents were evacuated to a temporary rest centre at the Snuff Mill Harvester pub nearby, as a cordon was established and later extended to cover the corner of Froomshaw Road.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud "bang" before smoke was seen billowing from one of the houses. Avon and Somerset Police have set up a white tent at the site as investigations continue.
Police Statement and Investigation
Avon and Somerset Police released a full statement confirming the deaths and the suspicious nature of the incident. The force emphasized that the explosion is not being treated as terror-related and that they are not seeking any other individuals in connection with the event. However, inquiries are being conducted at a property in Speedwell believed to be linked to the explosion.
The statement read: "A cordon remains in place while emergency services respond to an incident in Bristol. An explosion was reported at a residential address in Sterncourt Road at about 6:30 AM today (Sunday 3 May). The cause of the incident is being treated as suspicious, and a major incident has been declared. Two adults have died at the address and their families have been updated. Emergency services are following well-rehearsed plans in response to this incident."
Police further noted: "Our enquiries are at an early stage, but at this point we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident. The cordon has been put in place as a precaution to help keep the public safe. People living within that cordon are therefore being evacuated to a temporary rest centre. There is not believed to be any significant damage to other properties."
Public Reassurance and Appeal
Given the recent change to the UK threat level, authorities have sought to reassure the public that the incident is not believed to be terrorism-related. They have urged people not to speculate on the circumstances and to avoid the area while emergency services continue their response.
One resident who was moved to the rest centre described hearing a loud bang at 6:30 AM and going outside, only to be instructed by armed police to return indoors. Neighbours observed smoke rising from one of the houses shortly after the explosion.
