Thames Valley Police has formally named the three victims who tragically died in a catastrophic fire at the Bicester Heritage site, following a major incident declared on Thursday night (15 May).
Firefighters Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler Among the Dead
Two firefighters were killed in the line of duty while responding to the blaze at Bicester Motion, located on Buckingham Road, alongside a member of the public. The fire, which broke out around 6:40pm, prompted a large-scale emergency response involving ten fire engines.
The firefighters who lost their lives have now been named as:
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Jennie Logan, 30, of Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service
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Martyn Sadler, 38, who served with both Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue and London Fire Brigade
The third fatality has been identified as David Chester, 57, a local resident of Bicester.
Two other firefighters remain in hospital with serious injuries. All victims’ families are being supported by specially trained Family Liaison Officers.
Police Launch Unexplained Death Investigation
Thames Valley Police confirmed that a Major Crime Team has opened an investigation into the “unexplained deaths.” While the fire is not currently being treated as a criminal matter, detectives have vowed to “follow the evidence wherever it leads.”
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe said:
“This is an absolute tragedy and my thoughts — and the thoughts of everyone at Thames Valley Police — are with the families, friends and colleagues of Jennie Logan, Martyn Sadler, and David Chester.
Emergency services remain at the scene, dampening hotspots, and the site will continue to be cordoned off for several days. Police will maintain a visible presence to reassure the community and preserve the integrity of the scene.
Community in Mourning
Tributes from across the UK have been pouring in since news of the incident broke, with local residents, emergency service colleagues, and national figures honouring the victims’ bravery. However, the families have requested privacy and are not releasing formal statements at this time.
Candles, handwritten notes, and floral tributes now line the entrance of Bicester Motion, a heritage site that houses more than 50 classic car and aviation businesses.
