Salisbury explosion: Police confirm 29-year-old man killed in blast at military hardware factory

One man was killed and another was seriously injured in the explosion
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Alexandra Richards11 August 2018

A man who died at the Chemring Countermeasures factory explosion was a 29-year-old man from Southampton, Wiltshire Police have confirmed.

The fire broke out at the defence firm's facility near Salisbury at around 5pm after the blast in a flare manufacturing building.

The blaze was later extinguished as emergency services contained the incident.

Police said formal identification is yet to take place, although the victim's family have been informed.

A second man caught up in the explosion, a 26-year-old from Pewsey, remains in a serious but stable condition in Salisbury District Hospital.

Wiltshire Police said it was investigating the explosion with health and safety officers, and reassured the public that they faced no further risk.

The firm said it had also launched a "full and immediate" investigation.

Detective Inspector Simon Pope said: "We are working closely with the Health and Safety Executive on this investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and our enquiries will be continuing at the site today. A cordon remains in place at the site while investigators carry out their enquiries.

"We would like to reassure the public that this incident was contained as soon as possible and there is no risk to those living in the local area.

"Our thoughts remain with those involved in this incident, as well as their family, friends and colleagues at this time."

Additional reporting by Press Association

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