Man dies after bungalow destroyed in massive 'gas explosion': Police launch investigation

By JOSHUA HAINING, NEWS REPORTER Published: 12:08, 13 August 2026 | Updated: 12:29, 13 August 2026 A man has died after a bungalow was completely destroyed in a suspected gas explosion near Milton Keynes. The man, believed to be 67-year-old Stephen Woodward, died in hospital after suffering around 85 per cent burns to his body during the blast in Newton Longville on Sunday, August 9.  Mr Woodward, known locally as Steve, was inside his home with his Doberman, Milly, on the morning of the explosion. Doorbell footage showed bricks and debris flying out onto the street, damaging nearby homes and cars. Plumes of black smoke could be seen rising from the property as locals approached the wreckage.    Four fire engines from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the property at around 9.44am following reports of an explosion.  Residents reportedly gathered in a nearby pub where victims were treated by emergency services.  But Thames Valley Police today announced that a man in his 60s died while being treated for his injuries.  Footage shows bricks and debris flying out onto the street, damaging nearby homes and cars  The bungalow was completely destroyed in a suspected gas explosion in Newton Longville, near Milton Keynes Doorbell footage caught the bungalow exploding at 9.44am on Sunday Detective Inspector Philip Turner-Robson said: 'This is a tragic development and our thoughts are with the man's family and friends at this extremely difficult time. 'Thames Valley Police is managing a coronial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion and collapse of the property, working jointly with the Health and Safety Executive. 'Our enquiries remain ongoing as we seek to establish the full circumstances of what happened.' The keen fisherman and his dog were rescued from their home after the blast, having both suffered burns.  Milly, who suffered two burns, was taken to the vets but has since been released to a family member.  A cordon remains in place on Cobb Hall Road and more than 20 homes have been evacuated while gas engineers and police officers are on site.     It is understood locals reported the smell of gas prior to the explosion and emergency services were dispatched to investigate. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) confirmed they were leading the investigation but gas company SGN said the cause of the explosion is unknown. Plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the property as locals approached the wreckage following the blast  Stephen Woodward, who lived at the bungalow, is believed to have died following the explosion Officers stand next to a police cordon which remains at the scene of the explosion Wing Sports and Social Club in Leighton Buzzard, where the victim frequently attended, set up an appeal to fundraise money to purchase a memorial for Mr Woodward. Staff from the club said: 'Steve was never just a customer or a member of our club - he was a friend, and to many of us, he was part of the club family. 'He had an incredible sense of humour, never failed to make us laugh, and was always ready for a bit of banter. 'The laughs and the memories he created with us will never be forgotten. 'The money raised will be used in a way that honours Steve and reflects the things and places that meant something to him. 'We are looking at creating a lasting tribute to Steve, whether that be a memorial bench at the club or somewhere he loved spending his time, or supporting a canal trust in his memory or will be given towards his funeral. 'Steve, you weren't just a customer, you were our friend. We will miss you more than words can say, and we will never forget you.' Neighbours also set up a GoFundMe page to support the homeowner, prior to his passing, and other residents affected by the 'horrific event'. Thomas Humphries, who launched the fundraiser, said: 'On August 9 a horrific gas explosion occurred, severely damaging and injuring the home owner as well as other properties. 'My aim of this goal is to raise support and care for the home owners and residents that have been affected by this horrific event.'