Wales: Postie avoids gas explosion after stopping van at just the right second

A postman narrowly escaped death when he drove past a house just as it exploded, killing another in the street.

CCTV cameras filmed the unnamed Royal Mail worker walking down a street in Morriston, Swansea, on Monday morning.

He is seen stopping to give way to a white van and then continuing on his way before a house explodes to his right.

The postman miraculously survives, but is caught on film jumping out of his vehicle and then running down the street.

He was taken to Morriston Hospital and treated for shock and injuries, but was released a few hours later.

A witness said: “This postman was very unlucky to be in the wrong place at the wrong time – but at the same time very lucky to be alive.”

The suspected gas explosion, which affected two houses and was heard five miles away, tragically killed 68-year-old householder Brian Davies.

Tributes described him as “pleasant and talkative” having moved to the friendly street more than two years ago.

Neighbor Claire Griffiths, 49, and her son Ethan, 14, were hospitalized after the tragedy for injuries and shock.

Neighbors say at least 20 homes were damaged with the terraced street looking like a “war zone” – the blast could be heard five miles away.

Last night, the number of households unable to return home due to construction damage, roads blocked by debris and gas line safety concerns was reduced from over 200 to fewer than 30.

Detective Inspector Carl Price said: “Our thoughts remain with Brian’s family and friends at a very difficult time for them and those injured following the blast.

“Our investigations to determine the cause of the incident are ongoing and these investigations are being conducted in collaboration with the relevant authorities, including the Health and Safety Executive.

‘The patience and understanding of Clydach Road residents and the wider Morriston community as this work continues is greatly appreciated.’

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