House blast murder suspect released without charge

A man arrested on suspicion of murder after a house explosion has been released with no further action.

Emergency services were called to John Street in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, at about 19:40 BST on 12 April following the blast, which saw properties destroyed and residents displaced.

The body of a man, later named by police as 53-year-old David Howard, was recovered under debris and a police investigation commenced.

A 43-year-old was arrested and questioned on suspicion of murder but Nottinghamshire Police said he was released on Wednesday after officers found no evidence of any third-party involvement in Mr Howard's death.

The victim's family have been informed and are being supported by officers, the force added.

Det Insp Matt Scott said officers treated the explosion with the "utmost seriousness", and added: "After detailed examination of the available information, we do not believe there is any evidence of criminal wrongdoing at this point.

"As a result, the arrested man has been released with no further action and we will now be preparing a report for the coroner."

At the time, residents in neighbouring homes were given 15 minutes to collect "key items" before being evacuated and had only been able to return a month after.

This was to allow police forensic work and the demolition of three houses to take place.

Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.