Last night, a devastating fire tore through the former RAF base near Bicester Village, leaving the community shaken.
The blaze erupted at Bicester Motion, a site known for its motoring and aviation heritage, and quickly turned into a massive emergency that caught the attention of locals and emergency services alike.
Explosions and Thick Smoke Alarm Residents
Witnesses described hearing loud explosions and seeing thick, black smoke billowing high into the sky, visible for miles around Oxfordshire.
People nearby were understandably alarmed by the scale of the fire and the intense activity from emergency crews rushing to contain the situation.
Two Firefighters and One Civilian Lose Their Lives
In a heartbreaking update this morning, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that two of their firefighters died battling the blaze.
A member of the public also tragically lost their life. Another two firefighters are seriously injured and being treated in hospital.
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall expressed deep sorrow, stating, “It is with a very heavy heart that we report the loss of two of our firefighters.
Our thoughts are with their families, who are being supported during this incredibly difficult time.”
Emergency Crews Work Through the Night to Control the Blaze
The fire broke out around 6:40 pm at the historic Bicester Motion site, which houses roughly 50 specialist businesses focused on classic car restoration and engineering.
Approximately 10 fire crews were involved in fighting the fire through the night.
While the fire is now under control, it is still ongoing this morning, with several fire engines and support vehicles remaining on scene.
Locals Urged to Stay Indoors Amid Safety Concerns
Authorities advised residents in the vicinity to stay indoors and keep their windows closed until further notice to avoid inhaling the heavy smoke.
Roads around the area were initially closed but have since been reopened, though traffic remains heavy as the cleanup continues.
Eyewitness Accounts Paint a Dramatic Picture
Kieran McGurk, who lives right across from Bicester Motion, described hearing multiple loud bangs and seeing dark smoke filling the sky.
He recalled, “As we walked closer to the smoke, it got thicker and blacker.
There were sirens everywhere, and ash started falling around us. The scale of the fire was huge.”
Police helicopters also circled overhead throughout the night as emergency teams coordinated their efforts.
A Historic Site with Deep Roots in Aviation History
Bicester Motion, previously known as Bicester Heritage, is recognized as one of the most complete RAF airbases in the UK, home to numerous specialist businesses dedicated to preserving classic vehicles and aviation history.
Historic England has described the airfield as a prime example of an RAF base, making the loss here particularly poignant.
Community and Officials Respond with Concern and Support
Local councillor Sam Holland shared his thoughts, saying he witnessed the fire from a distance and saw “lots of emergency vehicles.”
He expressed hope that no one else was hurt in the incident.
Bicester Motion’s spokesperson reassured the public that they are cooperating fully with emergency services and promised further updates when appropriate.
Fire and Ambulance Services Remain on High Alert
Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service continues to monitor the site with a strong presence, using specialized equipment to support containment efforts.
Meanwhile, South Central Ambulance reported a rapid response to the incident, with a “robust command structure” in place as the emergency unfolds.