A suspected gas explosion completely destroyed a bungalow in Milton Keynes, leaving one man seriously injured and his dog needing veterinary care, all captured on a doorbell camera. The blast occurred at approximately 9.44am on August 9, 2026, in Cobb Hall Road, Newton Longville, near Milton Keynes.
Explosion caught on doorbell camera
The doorbell footage shows the property being demolished in seconds, with debris flying and smoke billowing. The injured man, believed to be the resident, was taken to hospital, while his Doberman was also taken to a vet for treatment. An eyewitness described the home as 'almost completely demolished', and another reported hearing the explosion from three miles away in Bletchley.
Thames Valley Police confirmed in a statement: 'At around 9.44am (09/08) emergency services were called to Cobb Hall Road, to a report of an explosion, fire and collapse of a property. One person sustained injuries, requiring hospital treatment, where they remain.'
Community response and evacuation
The blast forced nearby residents to evacuate their homes, with a local pub, The Crooked Billet, becoming a meeting point for those affected. Landlady Ness Thornton-Kitchen told the BBC: 'The pub is all about being the middle of the village and the middle of the community. Those people that needed us and needed that help had somewhere safe to come.'
Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service responded with four fire engines, treating the incident as a suspected gas explosion. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support the injured resident and neighbours whose homes were damaged.
Impact and ongoing support
The explosion highlights the dangers of gas leaks in residential properties. The man's condition remains unknown, but the survival of both him and his dog is being described as miraculous given the extent of the destruction. The community is rallying to provide support, with the pub serving as a hub for those displaced.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion, with gas explosion suspected. The incident serves as a reminder for residents to ensure gas appliances are regularly checked and to report any smell of gas immediately.
