Two firefighters and a civilian have died following a major fire at the historic Bicester Motion site, located at a former RAF airfield in Oxfordshire. The fire broke out on Thursday evening, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (OFRS) confirmed that the blaze began at approximately 6:39pm. Ten fire crews were dispatched to the site, a hub for classic car restoration and automotive engineering businesses. The fire is now under control, but the investigation into its cause remains ongoing.
Among the victims was a sub-officer from the London Fire Brigade, who was serving in a retained capacity with OFRS. The second firefighter was a full-time member of OFRS. Bicester Motion stated that the third victim was a “close friend of the site”.
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall said it was “with a very heavy heart” that he confirmed the deaths.
“Our thoughts are with the families at this most difficult of times,” he said. “We are supporting them and ask for privacy to be respected.”
Two additional firefighters sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving hospital treatment.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions as the fire engulfed the building. Video footage shared online showed thick black smoke billowing across the skyline and intense flames consuming part of the structure. Residents described hearing “pops, bangs and crackles” as the incident unfolded.
The site, previously known as Bicester Heritage, sits on a former Royal Air Force base and is regarded by Historic England as one of the best-preserved examples of an RAF airfield. It has become a landmark for motoring enthusiasts and heritage engineering firms.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the deaths as “devastating news” and expressed his hope for a swift recovery for the injured. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, speaking at the Welsh Conservative conference, said her “heart goes out to the families” and called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.
In the House of Commons, MP Anneliese Dodds paid tribute to the victims, extending condolences on behalf of her constituency and Bicester and Woodstock MP Calum Miller.
“We are grateful for their heroism and that of their colleagues when, as ever, they run towards danger to serve us all,” she said.
Bicester Motion issued a statement expressing shock and sadness.
“There are no words at times like this, but our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who have died. We are also praying for the two firefighters currently in hospital.”
A police cordon remains in place at the site, which is expected to remain closed over the weekend. Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward.
