The woman killed when a huge gas explosion destroyed a house in Kingstend was named in an online tribute as the much-loved grandmother Doreen Reese-Bibb. The body of the 79-year-old was found among the ruins of Dulwich Road after the deadly explosion on Sunday night.
She was warmly remembered in Facebook posts, including by a relative who confirmed her as a victim of the tragedy. A man who is said to own the house has been rescued from the remains of neighboring heroes and is fighting for his life in hospital. Another four have minor injuries.
READ MORE: Birmingham home gas explosion: Woman found dead at huge blast site
The West Midlands Fire Department said earlier it could take “days” before finding the exact cause of the deadly gas explosion. It says: “Investigations are continuing, on a very challenging stage. I thank the local community for their continued understanding and support. ”
Several bouquets were placed near the site of the tragedy. The blast also damaged nearby properties and cars. The homes were evacuated, with the Kingstanding Inn providing shelter and food for half a dozen families.
Flowers left at the site of the fatal gas explosion (Image: Birmingham Mail / Darren Quinton)
Mark Pierman, 49, described the dramatic moments before the arrival of the emergency services, when about 30 people rushed to help rescue a man heard screaming in the affected house. He said: “We heard a powerful explosion and our bodies shook.
“Blankets of smoke covered the street. Where the house was supposed to be, there was a pile of rubble and huge flames.
“About 30 young people rushed to help. One group was in front, the other was surrounded behind. We formed a human chain and passed ruins piece by piece.
“Several of the young boys picked up a wooden beam and a woman, a local physiotherapist, pulled out the man. They put him on a mattress that had been blown out of the house and the emergency services arrived.
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