Angle grinder and gunpowder identified as cause of house blast that injured pensioner
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The pensioner was reportedly trying to open a safe containing gunpowder with an angle-grinder when sparks caused it to detonate.
There was a major emergency response, with 999 services and a bomb disposal team in attendance at the address in Park Road, Billinge, following reports of a blast there on the afternoon of Wednesday February 21.
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Hide AdSerious leg injuries were sustained by the victim who is continuing to receive treatment in hospital.
Early reports said that the man had been injured after “opening a domestic item” and due to the “ignition of a flammable substance.” Then further details emerged of the accident involving the angle grinder, the safe and the gunpowder.
Residents reported hearing a loud bang in the mid-afternoon.
A North West Ambulance Service spokesman said paramedics were called shortly after 2.35pm and sent several resources, including a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance and the air ambulance.