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Picture credit: Isle of Man Fire & Rescue Service
18 May 2025

Two firefighters died in an industrial fire in Oxfordshire

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A devastating fire erupted at Bicester Motion in Oxfordshire on the evening of May 15, claiming the lives of two firefighters and a member of the public. Witnesses reported loud explosions and thick smoke as ten fire crews responded to the emergency. 

The fire at Bicester Motion forced the evacuation of workers from several businesses specializing in restoring classic cars and planes. Nearby residents reported hearing multiple explosions as thick black smoke billowed across the area.

Oxfordshire's Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall delivered an emotional statement at the scene. London Fire Brigade later confirmed that one of the fallen firefighters was a London Leading Firefighter/Sub Officer, serving in a retained capacity with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

See these source articles for more: 

 

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/watch-oxfordshire-fire-chief-tears-up-in-tribute-to-colleagues-who-died-after-bicester-blaze-unwavering-bravery/ar-AA1EUeH3

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/ex-raf-base-fire-firefighters-dead-oxfordshire-b2752252.html

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgmj1jlgnxdo

 

“It is with a very heavy heart that we today report the loss of two of our firefighters. A member of the public has also sadly died in the incident.

"Two further firefighters sustained serious injuries and are currently in hospital. The families have been informed and are being supported.

"Our thoughts remain with them at this most difficult time, and we ask for their privacy to be respected. We cannot release any details at present, but will provide further information when we can.

"We were called to the scene at 6.39pm yesterday, and at the height of the incident we had ten fire engines tackling the fire. We remain on site with a reduced presence and the fire is under control.

"Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues affected at this time. I am immensely proud and grateful of the exemplary multi-agency response and the unwavering bravery demonstrated by all the emergency services' personnel. Thank you."