Reece Galbraith, 33, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison following the explosion of an illegal cannabis factory that claimed the life of seven-year-old Archie York in Benwell, Newcastle.

The incident occurred in the early hours of 16 October 2024, when a build-up of butane, used in the production of drug-infused sweets, ignited, leading to a catastrophic explosion that obliterated several homes in the vicinity.

The explosion originated from a ground-floor flat on Violet Close, where Galbraith and his accomplice, Jason Laws, 35, were operating a clandestine facility to manufacture a substance known as cannabis shatter.

Both men were critically injured in the blast, which also claimed Laws's life.

Archie, who was asleep with his family in the flat above, was killed instantly.

The explosion resulted in the destruction of six homes and left dozens of residents displaced.

A total of 81 adults and 59 children from 51 homes required relocation, with 10 households needing permanent housing solutions.

The physical and emotional toll on the local community was significant, with damages estimated at £3.7 million by Newcastle City Council.

Court proceedings revealed that Archie’s mother, Katherine Errington, and his baby brother Finlay were buried under bricks and debris but were rescued by Archie’s father, Robbie York.

The court was informed that Archie's family had endured severe trauma, with his mother articulating profound grief and feelings of survivor's guilt after losing her son.

In an emotional statement, she directly addressed Galbraith in court, expressing her anger and sorrow over the loss of her child.

Similar testimonies came from neighbors who also suffered extensive losses due to the explosion.

One victim described how her infant daughter was blown across the room by the force of the blast and narrowly escaped serious injury.

The emotional impact of the incident has rippled through the community, with many residents describing Galbraith's actions as reckless and devoid of regard for public safety.

As investigations unfolded, evidence was collected revealing the presence of numerous butane gas canisters and sophisticated equipment for cannabis production at the explosion site.

Galbraith’s fingerprints were found on some of the debris, linking him to the illegal operation, while also establishing a history of selling cannabis sweets prior to the blast, a practice that had been ongoing for at least 11 months.

Despite the severity of the situation, Galbraith’s defense argued that he had not intended to cause harm, expressing remorse for the tragedy.

However, proceedings emphasized the calculated risks taken by both Galbraith and Laws in their operation, which involved dangerous substances with clear operational warnings.

Mr. Justice Cotter, presiding over the case, noted that the gravity of the tragedy would have a lasting impact on Archie’s family and acknowledged the miraculous circumstances under which some family members survived.

The case has drawn attention to the risks associated with illegal drug production and the potential consequences for communities when such operations take place in residential areas.