Police rule out suspected gas explosion in Dunfermline after firefighters deal with blaze

Police have told Kingdom FM that an incident in a Dunfermline street yesterday was not believed to be a suspected gas explosion, despite initial reports suggesting that it could have been.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were alerted at 1.45pm yesterday to reports of a dwelling blaze in the town's Dewar Street.

Eight appliances were dispatched, with an aerial ladder platform and other specialist resources also used.

The fire was extinguished at a mid terraced two storey flat.

An assessment of the building affected is taking place.

A 35-year-old man was taken to St John's Hospital in Livingston.

There is a joint investigation by police and the fire service being carried out.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "We were made aware of an explosion and subsequent fire at a property on Dewar Street, Dunfermline, around 1.50pm on Saturday, 3 July, 2021.

"Officers attended to assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service at the scene.

"A 35-year-old man was taken to St John’s Hospital for treatment.

"A number of properties have been evacuated until the building has been assessed.

"Following enquiries it is no longer believed to have been a gas explosion and enquiries are ongoing.

"A joint investigation is being carried out alongside the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service."