Edinburgh house explosion: Family pay tribute to blast victim James Findlay Smith, 84

The family of an 84-year-old man who died in an explosion at a house have paid tribute to him.

James Findlay Smith, 84, died in a blast at the property in Baberton Mains Avenue, Edinburgh, on Friday night.

Gas is believed to have caused the explosion, which killed Mr Smith and injured two other people, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said.

A 43-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man were taken to hospital for treatment.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, Mr Smith’s family said: “It is with deep regret that our father/papa/father-in-law, James Findlay Smith, sadly lost his life in the tragic events at Baberton Mains Avenue on 1 December.

“Our thoughts are with everyone involved and our well wishes go to the impacted families.

“We would like to thank the emergency services and the neighbours who went above and beyond for their support and help on the evening and following days.

“We request that you respect our privacy at this time.”

Those injured in the explosion were rescued by neighbours who rushed to help after hearing a “loud bang”.

Police Scotland said there were “no suspicious circumstances” surrounding the blast.

A HSE spokesperson said: “The focus of our investigation relates to the internal gas installations at the property and not the network.”

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The house was destroyed as people reported hearing the blast from miles away.

Several properties were evacuated as emergency services responded to the incident.