Shaw Explosion
Shortly after 11.15am today, Tuesday 26 June 2012, police were called to Shaw following a report that homes had been seriously damaged in a large explosion.
Police, fire and ambulance services are at the scene and a cordon remains in place.
Police can confirm a young child has died and a man has been taken to hospital suffering from significant burns.
Efforts are ongoing to establish whether any other people are trapped.
Superintendent Neil Evans said: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family of the child who has tragically died.
"We understand this tragedy has caused a lot of upset and shock in the close-knit community of Shaw. We are in the very early stages of an investigation but our priority at the moment is to try and reach anyone who may be caught up in the explosion.
"Three properties have been involved in a major explosion, and a large-scale response involving the emergency services and other agencies is in place.
"The child's family has been informed and they are being supported by specially trained police officers.
"Another man has been taken to hospital, where he is being treated for what are understood to be 80% burns.
"We are working with Oldham Council to make arrangements for those who may need to remain evacuated.
"This is an ongoing search and rescue operation, and more information will be released when it is available."
To find out more about Greater Manchester Police please visit our website.
You should call 101, the new national non-emergency number, to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.
Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.
You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.
Shaw Explosion
Shortly after 11.15am today, Tuesday 26 June 2012, police were called to Shaw following a report that homes had been seriously damaged in a large explosion.
Police, fire and ambulance services are at the scene and a cordon remains in place.
Police can confirm a young child has died and a man has been taken to hospital suffering from significant burns.
Efforts are ongoing to establish whether any other people are trapped.
Superintendent Neil Evans said: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family of the child who has tragically died.
"We understand this tragedy has caused a lot of upset and shock in the close-knit community of Shaw. We are in the very early stages of an investigation but our priority at the moment is to try and reach anyone who may be caught up in the explosion.
"Three properties have been involved in a major explosion, and a large-scale response involving the emergency services and other agencies is in place.
"The child's family has been informed and they are being supported by specially trained police officers.
"Another man has been taken to hospital, where he is being treated for what are understood to be 80% burns.
"We are working with Oldham Council to make arrangements for those who may need to remain evacuated.
"This is an ongoing search and rescue operation, and more information will be released when it is available."
To find out more about Greater Manchester Police please visit our website.
You should call 101, the new national non-emergency number, to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.
Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.
You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.