Tributes have been pouring in following the deaths of two firefighters and a local man in a devastating blaze at the former RAF Bicester airbase, now known as Bicester Motion.
Firefighters Jennie Logan, 30, and Martyn Sadler, 38, both serving with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (OFRS), lost their lives during the major incident on Thursday evening. Also killed in the fire was David Chester, 57, a local resident from Bicester.
On Saturday, a police cordon remained in place around the site, with a forensic tent erected and a heavy emergency services presence still visible. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation, with both Thames Valley Police and fire investigators warning it may take time to determine what sparked the fatal blaze.
A golden plaque has now been placed at the entrance to the site, engraved with the words:
“Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. Bicester Motion. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by the sad loss of two firefighters and the members of the public. Love from the Bicester community.”
The tribute is surrounded by a sea of flowers, handwritten notes, and personal messages left by members of the public. Among them, a London Fire Brigade T-shirt from A21 Paddington lies carefully placed beside a heartfelt card which reads:
“Martyn, Jennie. Dear God, protect these brave persons. Grant them your almighty protection and unite them safely with their families after their duty has ended.”
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall gave an emotional statement on Friday:
“I am immensely proud and grateful for the exemplary multi-agency response and the unwavering bravery demonstrated by all the emergency services personnel.”
Ten fire crews had been dispatched to the scene at 6:39pm on Thursday, as thick, black smoke filled the skies and local residents were urged to stay indoors. Witnesses described the inferno as “apocalyptic”, with flames tearing through the structure and plumes of smoke visible for miles.
Two other firefighters from OFRS sustained serious injuries and remain in hospital in stable condition, authorities confirmed on Saturday evening.
The tragic event has drawn an outpouring of grief and solidarity from across the country.
Angela Roseline, 58, a local resident, visited the scene to lay flowers.
“You go out to work, not to pass away, and that’s what’s happened,” she said tearfully. “These individuals have families… We want to let them know that we care for them, we love them, and we’re praying for them.”
At Bicester Fire Station, a wave of floral tributes and messages has also appeared. One touching note from a child included fire engine stickers and the words: “Thank you hero fighters.”
Among those paying respects was Dave Ward, 81, a retired firefighter. He laid flowers and saluted the memorial.
“Nobody will understand what a great family it is to be in the fire service,” he said through tears. “We’re all brothers wherever we serve.”
A GoFundMe page launched by local resident Daniel Chartrand in memory of those lost has already raised over £1,000, moving steadily towards its £4,500 target. The funds will support the families and commemorate the lives cut short in the line of duty.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe said:
“Our inquiries are ongoing, but this is a complex investigation which may take some time.”
As the community mourns, the memory of Martyn, Jennie, and David is being honoured not just with words, but with a profound sense of gratitude and respect for lives given in the service of others.
