Everything we know so far about major incident in Chesterfield

Here’s everything we know so far.

What happened?

At 5.30pm on Monday, emergency services were called to St Helen’s Street. There were reports that a two-storey terraced property had partially collapsed. Residents also heard an explosion. Two females and one male occupant were trapped inside the building which, according to police, suffered ‘severe’ structural damage. The three people were rescued from the property by fire crews. The man was taken to hospital by East Midlands Ambulance Service following care by the Hazardous Area Response Team. It is not thought his injuries are serious. People of Chesterfield have told of their shock at the incident – and sent well-wishes to those affected as well as thanks to emergency services for their response.

What caused the building to partially collapse?

At this stage, this has not been established by officials. A Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “A joint police and fire investigation will take place once the building is safe to do so.” A Derbyshire Constabulary spokesperson added: “We remain at the scene, supporting our colleagues at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, while investigations are carried out.” Watch our Facebook Live video from the scene here.

How were other properties affected?

In a statement shortly before 8pm on Monday, a police spokesperson said people in parts of Chesterfield would lose their gas and electric supply following the incident. “In order to deal with the incident, the gas and electric supply needs to be cut off and will be out for at least three hours,” they added. On Tuesday, the force spokesperson said: “Work is ongoing to make sure the property and neighbouring homes are safe alongside Derbyshire Building Control Partnership and utility companies. We also liaised with Derbyshire County Council’s emergency planning team to ensure residents’ safety and well-being.” When the Derbyshire Times visited St Helen’s Street on Tuesday morning, some residents said they had stayed elsewhere overnight.

What else do I need to know?

Parts of St Helen’s Street and Higher Albert Street remain closed following the incident. Members of the public are being urged to continue to avoid the area.

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