Man on the run after house explosion injures four

A suspected thief is at large after four people were injured following an explosion at a house he targeted, police have said.

The explosion took place at the empty house on Southfield Lane, Bradford, at about 22:00 BST on Saturday, but two neighbouring properties were also damaged and a man, woman and child were treated for minor injuries.

A 27-year-old man, who was found seriously injured near the scene, has been arrested on suspicion of theft and West Yorkshire Police are also seeking Jacob Ryan, 28.

A force spokesperson said: "It is possible Jacob Ryan may have been injured as well and we urge him or anyone who knows him to come forward."

They added: "It is important we make sure he has access to any medical treatment he may need."

Officers also said the men were attempting to steal metal from the unoccupied terraced property.

The arrested man's injuries were said to be serious but not life-threatening and he was treated at hospital.

Fire and ambulance services also attended the "significantly damaged" building, as well as the two adjacent properties.

The force said the affected property was then made safe with the assistance of utilities companies.

Supt Lucy Leadbeater, from Bradford District Police, said: "A number of enquiries remain ongoing into this serious incident today."

She added: "While the cause of the explosion at this empty property remains under investigation, we are investigating reports of a metal theft taking place there just prior to the incident."

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed a technical rescue unit with dogs carried out further searches after the casualties were treated to ensure there were no persons unaccounted for.