Tragedy struck Bicester when a fierce fire engulfed the Bicester Motion site, claiming the lives of two courageous firefighters and a local man.
For the first time, the faces of those heroic firefighters have been shared with the public—Jennie Logan, 30, and Martyn Sadler, 38.
Both served with distinction in Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service.
Alongside them, David Chester, a 57-year-old resident of Bicester, also lost his life in the devastating blaze.
The Fire and Its Aftermath
The fire erupted late in the evening, with witnesses recalling loud explosions and thick, black smoke rising high into the sky—visible for miles.
Around 10 fire crews responded swiftly to the emergency at the motoring and aviation heritage site, formerly a RAF base, which now hosts more than 50 businesses focused on classic car restoration and engineering.
Emergency teams battled the fire for hours starting around 6:30 pm, but sadly, the blaze proved fatal for the brave firefighters and David Chester.
The investigation into the cause is ongoing, though authorities have made it clear that the incident is not being treated as a criminal case. Firefighters remain on-site, working to fully extinguish the flames.
Honoring Jennie and Martyn
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall spoke with deep sorrow about the loss: “It is with a very heavy heart we share the passing of Jennie and Martyn.
Our thoughts are with their families during this unimaginable time, and we ask for their privacy as they grieve.”
Thames Valley Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe echoed these sentiments, expressing condolences to the families of Jennie, Martyn, and David Chester.
He called the event “an absolute tragedy” and highlighted the profound impact on all involved.
Words from Leaders and the Community
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer took to social media to voice his heartbreak and admiration for the firefighters’ bravery.
He described the news as “devastating” and offered hope for the recovery of others injured in the incident.
Locals living near Bicester Motion shared their firsthand experiences.
Vikas Talwar, a resident nearby, recounted seeing huge flames and thick smoke from his street corner, while Julie Stocker, who lives just across from the site, heard the crackling fire and explosions.
Both described the event as deeply upsetting.
Onlookers Describe a Night of Chaos
Multiple residents described the terrifying scenes: black smoke blotting the sky, loud bangs sounding like gunfire, and emergency vehicles rushing through the streets.
Kieran McGurk, who was near the site, witnessed ash falling as helicopters circled overhead.
The atmosphere was surreal and alarming for many.
The Historic Site and Its Significance
Bicester Motion, previously known as Bicester Heritage, is a historic airfield recognized as one of the country’s most intact RAF airbases.
It now serves as a hub for over 50 specialist businesses in car restoration and engineering.
The loss of life and damage to this iconic site have sent shockwaves through the community.
In a statement, Bicester Motion expressed deep sorrow over the deaths, praising the “overwhelming bravery” of the emergency responders and highlighting the community’s resilience in the face of tragedy.
Continued Safety Measures and Community Support
Although the fire is now under control, local fire officials continue to advise residents to stay indoors when necessary and have begun reopening roads that were closed during the emergency.
Ambulance services and police remain at the scene to provide support.
Residents are still feeling the effects, with some reporting the lingering smell of smoke and black ash near their homes.
Local councillors and city officials have lowered flags to half-mast as a mark of respect for those who died.
Tribute from Officials and Fire Service Leaders
Calum Miller, MP for Bicester and Woodstock, expressed heartbreak and admiration for the fallen firefighters’ courage.
National Fire Chiefs Council chief Philip Garrigan also paid tribute, describing firefighters as “the very best of us,” and offered heartfelt condolences to the families and colleagues affected.
Eyewitness Accounts and Emotional Reactions
One resident recalled mistaking the explosions for gunshots and described neighbors packing in case evacuation was necessary.
The Fire Brigades Union pledged full support to the families and promised a thorough investigation into the tragedy.
Janine McKenna Jones, living close to the scene, described the eerie feeling of seeing black ash and thick smoke and expressed sadness upon learning of the fatalities, especially since those who died were local heroes.
A Sobering Reminder of the Risks Firefighters Face
This heartbreaking incident is a solemn reminder of the dangers firefighters face every day in their line of duty.
The last known firefighter death in the UK occurred in January 2023, and since 2000, 19 firefighters have tragically died while protecting their communities.
Past incidents include Barry Martin in Edinburgh, Stephen Hunt in Manchester, and others who gave their lives battling fires and saving others.