Onlookers ‘scared’ as smoke rises from the ground in Oxford

The ongoing incident first started earlier this evening (Saturday, May 2) on Cowley Road in the city.

Thames Valley Police cars arrived at the scene along with several Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service fire engines.

Police officers cordoned off the scene with crime scene tape while firefighters tackled the smoke.

FOLLOW LIVE: Smoke billows from underground as police tape off Oxford street

Members of the public were warned to get back, away from the smoke, with many left scared of what was happening.

An onlooker, who wished to remain anonymous, has told this newspaper: “I have never seen anything like this.

“I felt that flames would explode wider in the area; it is so scary.

“I don’t know if the black smoke could be toxic or harmful, so the rest of the public and I got a good distance away from the area quickly.

“When the incident happened, there was only one police car, but then the fire engines arrived not long after- they are so quick.

“Then more police cars came.”

Both Thames Valley Police and Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service have been approached for comment on the situation.