Police issue investigation update following tragic house explosion which killed Frank Burton, 91

Police have issued an update on their investigation following the tragic house explosion that killed 91-year-old Frank Burton. The widower was found dead in his home after the blast in Brownley Road, Wythenshawe, last night (Thursday).

Greater Manchester Police had suggested that there were reports of a gas explosion. However, in a new statement issued at around 3.30pm today, April 1, the force has emphasised that the cause is yet to be determined and that investigations are still in their early stages.

Emergency services attended after reports of a fire and explosion at the house on Brownley Road at about 6.30pm. Sadly, a man - believed to be in his 90s - was then located deceased inside a property.

A number of houses were evacuated and the scene made safe at about 8pm. Greater Manchester Police bosses have now appealed for anyone with information about the blast to come forward, adding that they believe it to be a 'contained incident'.

Frank Burton's family paid tribute to him at the scene this morning as investigations continued, describing him as 'a character and a good guy'. His brother Philip said he feared that his sibling - a dad-of-two - may have bought an appliance to 'help with the cold snap in anticipation of rising energy bills' - and that it may have sparked the blast.

Detective Inspector Matthew Dixon, of GMP's City of Manchester district, said in this afternoon's statement: "Firstly, my thoughts are with the deceased man's family.

"Although we believe the deceased man was the occupant of the house he hasn't been formally identified yet. His family has been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

"Our investigations with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and the Health and