Man dies after blast
A man has died and another is in a critical condition after Thursday’s explosion at the Newmains Pastoral Centre.
Police Scotland confirmed the 23- year- old, who was working at the site, passed away from his injuries on Monday night.
The blast happened at 1.30pm while work was being carried out in the former church building on Bonkle Road.
Residents alerted authorities after hearing a loud bang at the centre. A small fire broke out and emergency services raced to the scene as people were evacuated from nearby homes.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service tackled the blaze whilst two people were taken from the building.
A Po l i c e Scotland spokesperson said: “A 23-yearold man has died after he succumbed to his injuries in hospital on Monday, October 9.
“A 26-year-old man remains in a serious condition.
“An investigation is ongoing by the police and Health and Safety Executive and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.”
At the time of the incident, security firm boss David McAdam, 47, was evacuated from his home next door to the building.
He said: “I heard this massive blast.
“It was obviously an explosion of some kind. I have never experienced anything like it before.”
Clare Adamson, MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw, right, said: “I was shocked to hear that one of those involved in the accident on Bonkle Road has sadly passed away.
“As convenor of the cross party group on accident prevention and safety awareness, I work very closely with organisations who dedicate themselves to preventing this type of tragic accident from happening.
“It is absolutely vital that the Health and Safety Executive carry out a full investigation into this incident.
“It is always a tragedy when someone leaves for work in the morning and doesn’t return home.
“My thoughts are with the affected family and friends at this time.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson said: