An “out of control” explosion on a film set near London’s O2 arena sparked a large fire on Saturday evening, sending thick black smoke across the city skyline. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) responded to the incident in Silvertown, which resulted in significant damage to several vehicles.
According to the LFB, the fire “followed a controlled explosion at a film set which spread out of control.” The blaze destroyed a van and damaged most of a car and a lorry. Firefighters worked quickly to contain and extinguish the fire, with the Brigade stating they would remain on scene throughout Saturday evening.
Witnesses reported seeing “the biggest explosion they’ve ever seen” from nearby balconies, with emergency services arriving shortly before 8 pm. One onlooker described hearing a “triple explosion” near the Silvertown Tunnel, speculating about the involvement of a BBC World truck that had been in the area for about two weeks.
Four fire engines and approximately 25 firefighters responded to the incident at an open-air yard on Dock Road in Silvertown, located across the River Thames from The O2 arena. The LFB confirmed that the fire was under control shortly after 9 pm, with no reported injuries.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade initially stated, “Half of a car and lorry are alight. The Brigade was called at 1951. Crews from Poplar, Millwall, Shadwell, East Greenwich attended the scene.”
The incident caused significant local disruption and concern, with witnesses reporting that the explosions “shook the entire neighbourhood.” As investigations continue, questions are likely to arise regarding safety protocols for film productions in urban areas.
