Emergency services in Bradford responded after an explosion at an unoccupied house on Southfield Lane late on Saturday that left four people injured and damaged two neighbouring properties, West Yorkshire Police said.
The blast occurred at about 22:00 BST at a terraced property that officers said had been targeted for metal theft. A 27-year-old man was found seriously injured near the scene and has been arrested on suspicion of theft; his injuries were described as serious but not life-threatening and he was treated in hospital. A man, a woman and a child from an adjacent property received minor injuries and were also treated.
Police said they are seeking 28-year-old Jacob Ryan in connection with the incident and warned he may be injured as well. "It is possible Jacob Ryan may have been injured as well and we urge him or anyone who knows him to come forward," a force spokesperson said. The spokesperson added that authorities want to ensure he has access to any medical treatment he may need.
Superintendent Lucy Leadbeater, from Bradford District Police, said enquiries remain ongoing into the "serious incident" and investigators were examining reports that two men were attempting to remove metal from the empty house immediately prior to the explosion. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service described the affected building as "significantly damaged."
Firefighters, ambulance crews and police attended the scene. A technical rescue unit with dogs carried out further searches after casualties were treated to ensure there were no persons unaccounted for. Utility companies assisted in making the property safe, officers said.
West Yorkshire Police said the two neighbouring properties sustained damage in the explosion. Investigators continue to secure the scene, assess the cause of the blast and gather evidence. Authorities urged anyone with information or who has seen Jacob Ryan to contact police so they can establish his welfare and progress their enquiries.
No further details about the arrested man's condition were released. Police have not confirmed whether any criminal charges have yet been filed. The investigation remains active as officers work to determine the precise circumstances that led to the explosion and the extent of damage to nearby homes.