A man died after being reported missing by his wife amid work stress and following a suspected gas explosion which affected his home in Whitehaven on New Year’s Eve, an inquest heard.
Three people — a man and woman in their 70s, and a woman in her 50s — were taken to hospital with serious injuries following the blast at Hugh Street in the town’s Bransty area on December 31.
This was reported just before 4.25pm and prompted a major response by the emergency services.
Two former servicemen entered the home at which the explosion had occurred, and a police spokesman confirmed in the aftermath that all known persons had been accounted for.
Neighbours were evacuated from homes, and a fundraiser was started to help those affected.
Those displaced had either been provided with shelter by family and friends, or supported by Cumberland Council staff to find alternative accommodation.
A Cumberland Council spokesman later confirmed that work would get under way to knock down one Hugh Street property and partly demolish a house next door.
At Cockermouth Coroners’ Court this morning, an inquest was opened and adjourned into the death of Matthew Osowski, of Bransty, Whitehaven.
Dr Nicholas Shaw, an assistant coroner for Cumbria, said 45-year-old Mr Osowski had been confirmed dead at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle on January 3, 2025.
The coroner noted Mr Osowski had also had stress at work.
Dr Shaw added: “A police search took place, his car was found and dog handlers found Matthew in the woods.
“He had injuries. He was taken to the Cumberland Infirmary in a state of cardiac arrest but sadly could not be revived. Under the circumstances an inquest is clearly required.”
Evidence of identification had been provided by Mr Osowski’s wife, and was formally accepted by the coroner.
He adjourned the hearing to a provisional conclusion date of June 12 2025.
