A leading London firefighter, on retained duty with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (OFRS), is among three people who tragically lost their lives during a massive blaze at the historic Bicester Motion site, formerly RAF Bicester.
The fire broke out on Thursday, 15 May, sending thick smoke billowing across the town and triggering a large multi-agency emergency response.
Confirmed Fatalities and Injuries
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe confirmed the loss of one of his own:
“We are devastated by the loss of our colleague. Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all those impacted.”
The deceased include:
- A London firefighter/sub-officer serving with OFRS on retained duty
- An Oxfordshire firefighter
- A member of the public, whose identity has not yet been released
Two additional OFRS firefighters remain in hospital with serious injuries, Oxfordshire County Council confirmed.
Fire Scene and Eyewitness Accounts
Officers remained at the entrance of Bicester Motion on Friday, as police, fire, and ambulance vehicles continued activity at the scene. The area remains cordoned off, with investigations into the cause ongoing.
Official Responses and Condolences
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall gave a solemn statement at the site:
“I am immensely proud and grateful for the exemplary multi-agency response and the unwavering bravery demonstrated by all emergency personnel.”
London Fire Brigade (LFB) has pledged to support the bereaved families and affected colleagues in both services.
Historic Site and Ongoing Investigation
Bicester Motion, formerly RAF Bicester, is a commercial and heritage hub featuring historic aircraft hangars and vehicle exhibitions. The full extent of the fire’s damage is still being assessed, with investigators probing the cause of the blaze and subsequent explosions.
Why This Incident Matters
This tragedy is one of the deadliest fire-related incidents in recent UK history, underscoring the dangers emergency responders face daily. The involvement of retained duty firefighters highlights the collaborative efforts between services to protect communities—sometimes at the highest cost.
Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
