Pensioner, 91, who died in explosion at his home had accidentally cut into gas ... trends now
A pensioner who died in an explosion at his home which 'shook nearby houses like an earthquake' had accidentally cut into a gas pipe with a power saw, an inquest has heard.
Father-of-two Frank Burton, 91, was found dead following the 'huge' blast in Wythenshawe, south Manchester, on March 31 last year.
The retired car mechanic's death sparked a large-scale emergency response, with police, fire crews and gas workers stationed at his semi-detached house on Brownley Lane for several days.
A hearing at Manchester Coroners' Court was told Mr Burton, a widower whose wife Brenda died a decade ago, was cutting a worktop with a power saw in his kitchen when he accidentally 'penetrated a gas pipe underneath'.
Father-of-two Frank Burton, 91, was found dead following the 'huge' blast in Wythenshawe, south Manchester, on March 31 last year
The retired car mechanic's death sparked a large-scale emergency response, with police, fire crews and gas workers stationed at his semi-detached house on Brownley Lane for several days
Senior coroner Nigel Meadows said: 'This led to an escape of gas which ignited and caused an explosion and a fire killing the deceased in the kitchen.'
The court heard Mr Burton died as a result of extensive burns and smoke inhalation, with Mr Meadows concluding his death was accidental.
A major incident was declared for a short time following the blast, which left Mr Burton's house completely destroyed.
Several neighbours were evacuated from their homes for a number of hours. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a 'huge' bang which 'shook their houses like an earthquake' as the house
