Oxfordshire's Chief Fire Officer has given an emotional statement in front of press at the scene of a fire which claimed the lives of two firefighters and a member of the public at a former RAF base in Bicester.
A fire broke out yesterday evening (Thursday 15 May) at Bicester Motion in Oxfordshire, with witnesses reporting loud explosions and thick black smoke billowing from the site.
Ten fire and rescue crews were called to tackle the fire, which prompted a major response and warnings for local residents to stay indoors.
London Fire Brigade has confirmed that one of those who lost their lives is a London Leading Firefighter/Sub Officer, who was on retained duty with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
“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 18:39 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."
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