NEIGHBOURS heard a loud bang followed by gut-wrenching screams during a fatal explosion at a Bowen unit last night.

A man inside the unit was killed while two police officers were injured.

Police were called to the Williams St unit at about 9pm to conduct a welfare check when the explosion occurred.

A man inside the unit was taken to Bowen hospital with life-threatening burn injuries before succumbing to his injuries.

A female officer was flown to Townsville Hospital with burn to her upper body while another officer had minor burns.

The male officer has now been released from hospital while the policewoman is still recovering in hospital with her family by her side.

It is understood her burns aren’t as serious as first thought.

Police are investigating an explosion in Bowen, which killed a man and injured 2 police officers. @tsv_bulletin pic.twitter.com/8G88o7Y7uK — Chris McMahon (@ChrisTheJourno1) December 13, 2015

An emergent situation was declared as a precaution before being revoked at 10.15pm after the a rear was declared safe.

A crime scene was established as police continue to investigate the incident.

Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.