Man, 33, charged with killing boy, 7, and dad in his 30s in ‘truly devastating’ house explosion

A MAN has been charged with killing a boy and a dad in a "truly devastating" house explosion.

Jason Laws, in his 30s, and seven-year-old Archie York both died after a blast ripped through a home in Newcastle in October.

Reece Galbraith, 33, has since been charged with two counts of manslaughter, the production of cannabis, and being concerned in the supply of the drug.

Galbraith appeared at Newcastle Magistrates' Court today for a short hearing.

He was remanded into custody to next appear at the city's crown court on January 7.

Three men previously arrested – two in their 30s and one in his 50s – remain on police bail pending further enquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a truly tragic incident in which two people died.

“As a result of our ongoing investigation, a man has now been charged.

“We recognise the strength of feeling around what has happened and would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.

“Our enquiries also continue and we would further ask anyone with information who is yet to come forward to contact us as a soon as possible.”

Christopher Atkinson, Head of the Complex Casework Unit for CPS North East, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised two charges of manslaughter against Reece Galbraith, 33, in relation to an explosion on Violet Close, Benwell, on 16 October, which claimed the lives of two people.

“He is also charged with the production of cannabis and being concerned in the supply of cannabis.

“Criminal proceedings against the Mr Galbraith are active and he has a right to a fair trial. We remind all concerned that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

Tributes previously poured in for little Archie and Jason.

Faraz Jamal wrote: "R.I.P to Jay Laws and the little one. Thoughts and prayers are with your families."

Laura Crawford added: "Heartbreaking what a sad day my heart hurts so bad rest in paradise. Jason Laws. And beautiful little boy."

Judith Jobes wrote: "So sorry Joseph Laws. Life is so cruel. Thinking of you, your mam & dad and Jay's partner & children.

"Such a tragedy. Love me & Matty."

On flowers and notes left at the scene at the time, on person wrote: "RIP brother, going to be missed."

Another said: "RIP Jay. Our hearts are all broken, memories we all shared wil stay forever."

Archie's aunt Abbie York told The Sun: "He called me Auntie Abba. He was the most amazing seven-year-old boy.

"He had a heart of pure gold. He was funny, clever and so loving and caring."

Posting on Facebook, Abbie added: "Archie's life was so tragically snatched from him in the early hours of the morning in the explosion in Benwell.

"My family are all so truly devastated and heartbroken beyond words by this and we would respect privacy at this time.

"Archie was my nephew and the most beautiful, funny, and caring little boy.

"His name deserves to be shouted from the rooftops! We all love you so much little man, you didn't deserve this."

A resident at the scene also described Archie as a "lovely lad".

Six other people were taken to hospital following the horror just after 1am that day.

Anyone with any information which could help cops should call 101 quoting log number NP-20241016-0028.

You can also share information anonymously with independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.