Bloxwich house explosion could be linked to to cannabis production - police say

West Midlands Police have said they are looking at the possibility that a Bloxwich house fire was drug-related.

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Investigations into a fire that raged through a property on Shrewsbury Close, Bloxwich, are ongoing as West Midlands Police look at possible links to cannabis production.

In an update released today, West Midlands Police said that they believe the fire on Monday evening was caused by butane gas canisters that exploded in the property.

As well as revealing a possible source of the explosion, the force also added that they are 'looking at the possibility' that the address was used to produce cannabis.

Police have said they believe the fire was caused by exploding butane gas cannisters

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "Investigations into a fire at an address in Shrewsbury Close, Bloxwich, on Monday evening (28 April) are continuing.

"We believe the fire was caused by butane gas canisters inside the property which exploded. We are looking at the possibility the address was used to produce cannabis, but we continue to investigate."

Following the incident, two men were discovered in Willenhall with serious burn injuries, with both being taken to hospital where they remain today in a serious condition.

Two people were found with injuries in Willenhall following the fire — Investigators are also investigating possible links to drug production

An appeal was launched following the incident, with West Midlands Police asking for information surrounding the explosion.

The force spokesperson appealed: "Two men who were taken to hospital with burn injuries remain in a serious condition in hospital.

"Witnesses or anyone with any information can contact us via Live Chat on our website or call 101 quoting log number 5841-280425. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111."

Two men remain in hospital following the incident — Two men remain in hospital in a serious condition after being found in Willenhall

The fire also damaged neighbouring properties in the area, with residents calling on the community to help the families affected.

One resident, Gary Johnson, 65, from the area, said: "Some people were evacuated. I have seen some people walking around the street with bags of stuff. So they can at least get some of the stuff.

"It is sort of a close-knit community. If the church or something started a fundraiser, I think a lot of people would donate items and stuff."