Two individuals have lost their lives in a “suspicious” explosion that occurred in Bristol. Law enforcement authorities have labeled the incident a major one and dispatched bomb disposal teams.

The explosion took place at a residence on Sterncourt Road in the Frenchay neighborhood around 6:30 a.m. Police armed with firearms were sighted, and inhabitants were relocated to an emergency “temporary rest center” at the nearby Snuff Mill Harvester pub.

Residents reported hearing a loud “bang” in the morning, followed by smoke emanating from one of the buildings. Avon and Somerset Police erected a white tent on-site, and the cordon was later expanded to encompass the intersection of Froomshaw Road.

Officials have stated that the occurrence is being treated as suspicious, with a major incident status declared. The explosion is not believed to be terrorism-related, and no additional suspects are being sought. Nevertheless, investigations are ongoing at a property in Speedwell that is potentially connected to the explosion.

A local resident who was relocated to the Harvester pub recounted hearing a loud noise at 6:30 a.m. and stepping outside, only to be instructed to go indoors by armed officers. The resident mentioned that neighbors observed smoke billowing out from one of the residences.

A safety cordon remains in effect as emergency services address the situation in Bristol. Authorities are treating the incident, which transpired at a residential location in Sterncourt Road at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 3, as suspicious and have declared it a major incident.

Two adults have tragically perished at the site, and their families have been notified. Emergency services are following established protocols in response to this event. Enquiries are in the early stages, and no other individuals are currently being pursued in connection with the incident.

As a precautionary measure to ensure public safety, the cordon has been established, leading to the evacuation of residents within the area to a temporary shelter. Damage to surrounding properties is not believed to be significant.

Police are conducting inquiries at a Speedwell property linked to the incident. Despite the recent adjustment to the UK threat level, authorities emphasize that the incident is not being treated as a suspected act of terrorism.

The public is urged to avoid speculation about the circumstances and to steer clear of the area while emergency services manage the situation.