A businessman who ran into a burning building to help emergency crews has been named among the three people who lost their lives in the devastating fire at Bicester Motion, a former RAF base in Oxfordshire.
Dave Chester, 57, died alongside Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service firefighters Jennie Logan, 30, and Martyn Sadler, 38, when a massive blaze ripped through a hangar on Thursday evening.
“He Died the Way He Lived – Helping Others”
In a heartbreaking family tribute, Mr Chester was remembered as a local hero and a pillar of the Bicester community.
“Dave was always the man you went to when you needed help. That’s exactly what happened Thursday evening — he saw firefighters needing assistance and helped without hesitation.
He wasn’t a victim — he was a hero.”
Mr Chester, a lifelong Bicester resident, was deeply involved in the local business scene and had built a successful company with the support of his family and friends.
Two Firefighters Killed in the Line of Duty
The fire also claimed the lives of two brave firefighters:
- Jennie Logan, 30, who joined Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2023 and was a beloved member of Bicester Vixens Rugby Club.
- Martyn Sadler, 38, who served with both Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue and London Fire Brigade, and was a long-time member of Bicester RUFC.
A fundraising campaign for their families and The Fire Fighters Charity has surpassed £8,000, with tributes pouring in from across the UK.
Firefighters formed a guard of honour outside Bicester Fire Station, while floral tributes, heartfelt messages, and children’s drawings have been left at multiple sites across the village.
Investigation and Eyewitness Accounts
At the height of the blaze, ten fire engines tackled the inferno. Witnesses reported multiple explosions and plumes of thick black smoke visible from as far as Oxford.
According to resident Shane Jones, the building contained gas cylinders and piles of tyres, which may have contributed to the scale of the blaze.
An unexplained death investigation has been launched by Thames Valley Police, though no foul play has been confirmed.
Community and National Tributes
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall, fighting back tears, confirmed the deaths in an emotional press conference:
“It is with a heavy heart that we report the loss of two of our firefighters. A member of the public has also sadly died.
Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues affected.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer posted on X:
“Devastating news. The bravery of our firefighters is astounding. My thoughts are with their families and friends.”
Local MP Calum Miller called the tragedy “devastating” and said the community would ensure a lasting tribute to those who lost their lives.
