Murder probe over gas blast death (From The Oxford Times)

Murder probe over gas blast death

5:45pm Wednesday 27th June 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

A murder inquiry may be launched by detectives investigating the tragic gas blast death of two-year-old Jamie Heaton.

The youngster, described by his heartbroken family as a "happy loving little boy" and "full of laughter", was killed as he watched TV in the front room of the family's terraced house in Shaw, Oldham.

His mother Michelle survived the carnage after she momentarily stepped into the yard to hang out washing to dry.

Her husband Kenny and two other children, Jodie and Jack, were not at home.

In a tribute, the victim's family said: "Jamie was a happy loving little boy - precious son to Michelle and Kenny and loving little brother to Jodie and Jack.

"Jamie's life was full of laughter. He loved going to preschool, playing with sand and water and going to the park. He touched the hearts of all who knew him and will be missed by all."

The killer blast, around 11.15am on Tuesday, left neighbour Andrew Partington, 27, in a serious condition in hospital with burns.

But after initial police and fire service investigations Mr Partington faces "significant questions" a senior officer said.

Police are at his bedside at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester waiting to be given the go-ahead by doctors to question him.

Sources confirmed a domestic argument involving the injured man took place in the hours before the blast.