Belconnen explosion destroyed several stores

Several shops were destroyed and many other properties damaged in an explosion in Rye Street, Belkonen, tonight (December 27).

Police are investigating the cause of the explosion, which occurred around 7:30 p.m.

Firefighters put out fires in several buildings and one man was taken to hospital for treatment.

 Belconnen explosion destroyed several stores

Police say that while the full extent of the damage is still being determined, several buildings have been gutted by the flames and other nearby shops have sustained significant damage from fires and smoke.

Several roads in the area have been closed, and are expected to remain closed until Tuesday morning.