Police name man who died in Fountainbridge explosion
His family are thanking those who helped in the aftermath
Last updated 1st Oct 2019
A man who died following an explosion at a tenement building in Edinburgh has been named by police.
The body of Gordon Sievewright, a 69-year-old who was from the capital, was discovered by fire crews in the building last month.
Emergency services were called to the scene on Fountainbridge at around 5pm on Tuesday September 10, after locals reported a loud bang and flames coming from the four-story building.
In a statement released through Police Scotland, the family of Mr Sievewright said: “As a family we are deeply shocked and saddened at Gordon’s passing. We would like to thank the police and the other emergency services for their efforts and ongoing sensitivity.
“We would also like to express our gratitude to the members of the public who risked their own safety to try and assist both Gordon and anyone else who may have been in the building in the immediate aftermath of the explosion."
The blast caused significant damage, with road closures remaining in place since.
Eyewitnesses told Forth News at the time how debris flew across the street and the building quickly became engulfed in flames.
Chief Inspector Scott Richardson said: “I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr Sievewright as they come to terms with their loss. They have asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.
“Our investigation into what caused the fire remains ongoing and since the incident happened there has been a lot of work undertaken at the scene. I understand this has caused disruption to local residents and businesses however I want to reassure everyone that our main priority is the safety of the public and those working at the site.
“We continue to work to determine the full circumstances of the incident and the road closures will remain in place at this time.
“I would like to thank our partners for their assistance and the public for their continued patience and cooperation."
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