A quiet Sunday morning turned into a nightmare for one Buckinghamshire community when an explosion ripped through a family home, leaving a beloved local man fighting for his life. Now, friends and neighbors are mourning the loss of 67-year-old Steve Woodward.
The devastating blast tore through Steve’s bungalow in Newton Longville early Sunday morning, while he was inside with his pet Doberman, Milly, according to reports.
Emergency crews rushed Steve to the hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. Reports indicate he sustained burns covering approximately 85 percent of his body.
Since the news broke, tributes have flooded in from those who knew and loved him. The Wing Sports and Social Club in Leighton Buzzard, where Steve was a longtime member, launched a fundraising campaign in his honor.
“On Sunday, 9 August, our friend and neighbour Steve’s life changed in an instant when a devastating explosion destroyed his home in Newton Longville. Sadly, Steve has now passed away, and we are raising money in his memory to support the things that mattered to him and to give something back in his name,” the page reads.
The club described Steve as far more than just a member, calling him a friend, a familiar face, and someone who could make people laugh. They noted his passing has left a massive hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
𝓈𝒽𝓸𝒸𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 videos captured the moment the bungalow’s roof shot into the sky, with debris raining down on cars below. Other clips showed the home completely gutted, with bricks, planks of wood, and furniture scattered across the property while a fire continued to burn.
A neighboring bungalow also suffered significant damage, with roof tiles left dangling precariously.
Residents were evacuated from their homes as engineers from gas distribution company SGN conducted safety checks in the area.
Detective Inspector Philip Turner-Robson of Thames Valley Police expressed his condolences, saying: “This is a tragic development and our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”
He confirmed the police are managing a coronial investigation alongside the Health and Safety Executive, working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the explosion and collapse of the property.
Local MP Callum Anderson also shared his sorrow over the news, calling the incident “an absolute tragedy.” He extended his thoughts to Steve’s family, friends, and everyone in the wider community affected or displaced by the devastating event.
The parish council added: “Our deepest condolences go to Steve’s family and friends. He will clearly be very much missed by this community.”
As authorities continue their investigation, the community is left to piece together how such a tragic event unfolded. What else will the investigation reveal about that fateful morning?
