An independent review is set to be launched into the handling of the Haut du Mont explosion in Jersey, following formal complaints from bereaved families who raised “serious concerns” about the response to the tragic event.
The explosion occurred in the early hours of 10 December 2022, at a residential block in St Helier, claiming the lives of ten residents.
In November 2023, relatives of the victims submitted a formal complaint to the Government of Jersey, expressing grave concerns about the emergency response and medical care provided after the incident. Although the Government initially indicated that an external review would be considered in December 2023, families later reported a lack of follow-up.
The Government of Jersey’s Complaints Board has now confirmed that an independent external review will go ahead. The Chief Minister’s Office has issued an apology for the delay in appointing an expert to lead the review and committed to working closely with bereaved families to shape the terms of reference.
A report from the board stated:
“While initially deemed outside the complaints board’s jurisdiction, the Chief Minister’s Office has since committed to an independent, external review. Bereaved families will be supported in shaping the terms of reference.”
In March 2024, three former employees of the gas company appeared in court, each facing 10 charges of gross negligence manslaughter. They have been remanded on bail and are scheduled to appear for indictment at the Royal Court on 28 May.
Those who lost their lives in the explosion:
Ken Ralph, 72
Jane Ralph, 71
Peter Bowler, 72
Raymond Brown, 71
Romeu de Almeida, 67
Louise de Almeida, 64
Derek Ellis, 61
Sylvia Ellis, 73
Billy Marsden, 62
Kathleen McGinness, 73
Ms McGinness, who lived in an adjacent building, was taken to hospital after the explosion but sadly died on Christmas Day 2022.
The upcoming review is expected to address key concerns raised by families and help restore confidence in the government’s handling of major incidents.
