Isle of Wight police have launched an investigation following a flat fire in Ryde earlier today (Saturday).
As previously reported, at around 1pm, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to a fire at a block of flats on Garfield Road, close to its junction with the High Street.
Fire crews from Ryde, Newport and Shanklin were all called to the scene, together with police and paramedics.
Later, crews from Cowes, Sandown and Ventnor were also drafted in.
Read more:
'Sound of explosion' report as fire breaks out in Ryde flats
Two explosions as windows fell during dramatic fire at block of flats in Ryde
A County Press reader at the scene when the fire first broke said they heard an explosion, closely followed by a second loud bang.
A second witness, Alan Henning, said he saw glass exploding and windows falling to the ground.
The fire involved the stairwell and roof space of Solent House, owned by Sovereign Network Group (SNG).
Jaclyn Jenkins, regional director at SNG, said: “All residents were safely evacuated from the building.
"We would like to thank the fire service and other emergency responders for their swift action.
"Our teams are on site supporting residents and assessing the impact of the incident.
"We are working closely with partner agencies and will ensure that any residents unable to return to their homes have access to appropriate temporary accommodation and support.
"As the cause of the fire is currently being investigated, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary told the County Press officers attended the scene and are working with firefighters to investigate the cause of the fire.
A temporary road closure remains in place while emergency teams continue to deal with the incident.
People are urged to avoid the area where possible to help maintain access for emergency vehicles.
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