Bicester Heritage Fire Horror: Two Firefighters and Civilian Killed in Blaze at Former RAF Base
A devastating inferno ripped through Bicester Motion, a former RAF airbase and classic car heritage centre near Bicester Village, claiming the lives of two firefighters and a member of the public.
The fire broke out shortly before 6:40pm on Thursday, 15 May, with witnesses reporting loud explosions and towering plumes of black smoke visible for miles.
Ten fire engines were deployed to battle the blaze, and two additional firefighters were seriously injured and remain in hospital.
Major Crime Team Called In
While police say it is not currently being treated as a criminal investigation, Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Team has launched an unexplained death probe.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe confirmed officers will remain at the scene for days, adding:
“We will follow the evidence as our enquiries continue.”
Victims Named and Tributes Paid
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe confirmed one of the deceased was a London sub-officer serving on retained duty with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue.
Oxfordshire’s Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall, visibly emotional, paid tribute to his fallen colleagues:
“With a heavy heart, we report the loss of two of our firefighters and one member of the public. Their bravery was unwavering.”
Locals have laid floral tributes, handwritten notes, and hand-drawn images at the gates of Bicester Motion and the nearby fire station. A book of condolence has opened at St Edburg’s Church, which hosted a vigil at 7pm.
“Brothers in Service” – Firefighter Family in Mourning
Retired firefighter Dave Ward, 81, said through tears:
“Nobody understands what a great family it is. We’re all brothers wherever we serve.”
19 firefighters have now been killed in the line of duty in the UK since 2000. The last was Barry Martin, who died in Edinburgh in 2023.
Eyewitnesses Describe Explosions and “Apocalyptic” Smoke
Residents described seeing thick black smoke from as far as Oxford and heard repeated “popping” and explosions.
Safety Warnings Issued
Residents were advised to close windows and remain indoors due to potentially hazardous smoke. The site remains closed, with emergency crews still dampening hotspots.
National and Local Leaders Respond
- PM Sir Keir Starmer:
“Devastating. The bravery of our firefighters is astounding.”
- MP Calum Miller:
“This is a heartbreaking moment for our community.”
- Oxford Council Leader Susan Brown:
“We owe our firefighters a deep debt of gratitude.”
About the Site
Bicester Motion is home to over 50 motoring businesses, many focused on classic car restoration. The fire’s impact on the historic site is expected to be significant, with calls for a long-term memorial.
Bicester Motion said in a statement:
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. The bravery of the emergency services has been overwhelming.”
Key Facts
- Fire broke out at 6:39pm, 15 May at Bicester Motion.
- Two firefighters and one civilian tragically died.
- Ten fire engines responded; fire now under control.
- Thames Valley Police leading major crime investigation.
- Community tributes continue to grow at the scene.
- Bicester Motion will remain closed this weekend.
