Police investigating the massive gas explosion in Shaw yesterday that killed a 2-year-old and left a man with 80% burns, have said that they are treating the incident as 'suspicious'.

The blast occurred at approximately 11.15am, flattening two terraced houses in the Buckley Street area of Shaw, Oldham, and damaging dozens of surrounding properties and vehicles.

Initially thought to have been an accidental gas leak, Greater Manchester Police are treating the site as a crime scene and engineers test the gas mains and pipes serving the homes in the area.

Superintendent Neil Evans said police were aware of local rumours that a domestic incident took place in the area on Monday night, and added "what I can categorically say is that if that is the case, the police were not called," and asked anyone with information to step forward.

The investigation continues.

See original story including pictures here.

Photograph via Greater Manchester Police.