ALMOST four weeks after the city shook from the explosion in Osney, police have confirmed Guido Schuette died in the blast.

At about 4.45pm on Valentine's Day emergency services rushed to Gibbs Crescent after an explosion destroyed a block of three flats.

On Saturday, February 18 a search began by both police and Oxfordshire County Council's Fire and Rescue Service and urban search rescue specialists, which led to the discovery of human remains. 

Formal identification has now taken place and the coroner has confirmed the remains to be 48-year-old Guido Schuette, who was reported missing.

Oxford Mail:

His family have been informed.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Jim Holmes, of Force CID based in Oxford, said: "We continue to make enquiries in relation to the cause of the explosion and fire at Osney Mead.

"However our work is now being carried out on behalf of the coroner, who will determine the circumstances surrounding this incident.

"We will not be making further comment before the findings of the coroner are known."

Oxford City Councillor for Osney Susanna Pressel said: "It will be a relief for the residents to have confirmation of the identity of the person who died.

"However, some tell me that they are angry that we have still not been told what caused the explosion.

"Several are having a lot of trouble sleeping at night, and they fear a similar explosion could happen again.

"They feel that if they knew more, it might help them to recover from their trauma.”