Police are treating the blast near to the Londis story on Wetherby Road yesterday as arson, it was confirmed today. Here are devastating damage pictures provided to the Yorkshire Evening Post:
. Fire started nearby
A fire had been started among some rubbish next to the parade of shops and had caused a gas canister to explode, damaging nearby properties - including the distraught family's. | jpimedia
. 'Our house is unihabitable'
One family member, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "Our house is uninhabitable and my grandchildren had to run out of the house with no shoes on. "They are really upset. "They got out two minutes before the blast." | jpimedia
. 'Like an earthquake'
Residents nearby likened the sound of the bang to an 'earthquake' and many rushed outside their homes following the explosion. | jpimedia
7. Enquiries continuing
Detective Inspector Richard Holmes, of Leeds District CID, said: We are continuing to carry out enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident and would like to hear from anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area in the time leading up to the fire and explosion. | jpimedia
8. Anyone with info should contact Leeds CID
Anyone with information is asked to contact Leeds District CID via 101 quoting crime reference 13200211487 or online via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat. | jpimedia
9. Information can be given anonymously
Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. | jpimedia