A man has faced court charges related to the fatal house explosion in Newcastle that resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Seven-year-old Archie York and 35-year-old Jason Laws were killed in the explosion at Violet Close, Benwell, on October 16.

Reece Galbraith, 33, from Rectory Road, Gateshead, appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court, where he was charged with two counts of manslaughter, as well as production and supply of cannabis. He did not enter a plea and is scheduled to return to Newcastle Crown Court on January 7.

Prosecutors allege that butane gas canisters were utilized in the creation of cannabis-infused sweets. Although Mr. Galbraith was initially granted bail, the prosecution contested this decision, leading to him being remanded in custody pending a further hearing within 48 hours.

Additionally, three other men who were arrested during the investigation—two in their 30s and one in his 50s—are currently on police bail.

Det Ch Insp Katie Smith, from Northumbria Police, described the explosion as a “truly tragic incident”.

“We recognise the strength of feeling around what has happened and would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings,” she said.

Northumbria Police has asked those with information about the case to come forward.