More than £7,000 raised in two days for Walsall house explosion victim
More than £7,000 has been raised for the family of a grandmother who was killed in an explosion at a house in Walsall.
The victim, named locally as Lynn Hadley, died in the explosion at the end-terrace house in New Street, Shelfield, at around 5pm on Easter Monday.
It is not yet known what caused the blast but an ambulance crew was inside the house when the explosion happened.
Flowers and teddy bears have now been left in tribute outside the home, which had its roof ripped off in the blast and now has scaffolding outside the front of it.
Debris is still in the back garden and the back door has been boarded up.
Four other adults and a child were safely evacuated from the house before fire crews arrived but 68-year-old Mrs Hadley was pronounced dead at the scene.
Hannah Fullerton launched a fundraising page on Tuesday with a target of £10,000 and in two days 249 people have donated more than £7,200.
Ms Fullerton wrote on the page that an ambulance was called for Lynn as she was struggling to breathe and had been displaying coronavirus symptoms.
The paramedics came inside and then the explosion happened, she added.
Ms Fullerton said: "On Monday 13th April 2020 an ambulance was called for Lynn as she had been showing symptoms of Covid-19 and was struggling to breathe having managed symptoms at home for a couple of days.
"The paramedics arrived and they came inside the house where Lynn lives with her husband Dave, daughter Kelly and granddaughter Mackenzie.
"Whilst the paramedics were assessing Lynn for some reason there was a huge explosion and the house was engulfed in flames which very quickly became out of control.
"Although everyone did what they could to get everyone out safely, unfortunately Lynn wasn't able to be saved and passed away in the house.
"The exact cause of the explosion is yet to be confirmed and there is currently an ongoing investigation.
"The Hadley family are the most selfless family you will ever meet, they would do anything for anyone.
"Tragically they have lost their loving mum, wife and grandmother they have also lost 40 years of sentiment and memories in their family home, they have absolutely nothing left.
"Lynn was only 68 years old and was an amazing wife to Dave, mum to Kelly, Chris, Noel and Samantha and her grandchildren who she absolutely adored.
"I would like to raise money to help Dave, Kelly and Mackenzie get back on their feet again and take some financial stress off the upcoming months. Any donations would be hugely appreciated whether it be big or small. Thank you so much."
The Health and Safety Executive is now investigating in conjunction with West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "A full investigation into what happened has begun to ascertain the circumstances."
To see more, or donate, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/hadleyfamily.
West Midlands Fire Service has been contacted for comment.
