Bicester Fire: Two firefighters and man killed in horror fire at ex RAF base

The firefighters who died in the fire at Bicester Motion in Oxfordshire on Thursday have been named as Jennie Logan, 30, and Martyn Sadler, 38, while the member of the public who died is David Chester, 57, said. The two emergency workers and civilian died after a blaze broke out at a former RAF base in Bicester, which is now home to the automotive and engineering firm Bicester Motion, on Thursday night.

London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said Mr Sadler was a top London firefighter who had been on "retained duty" with the Oxford Fire and Rescue Service (OFRS), while authorities confirmed Ms Logan was of the OFRS. Bicester Motion appeared to reference Mr Chester as "a close friend of the site" in a statement mourning his loss. Police have launched an unexplained death investigation but said the incident is not currently being treated as a criminal case.

Chief fire officer Rob MacDougall gave an emotional statement at the scene of the fire, after eyewitnesses reported seeing "black smoke" billow into the sky from the other side of town.

"It is with a very heavy heart that we today report the loss of two of our firefighters," Mr MacDougall said. "Families have been informed and are being supported.

"I am immensely proud and grateful for the exemplary multi-agency response and the unwavering bravery demonstrated by all the emergency services personnel."

Two other firefighters were injured in the incident and are being treated in hospital.

Assistant Chief Constable at Thames Valley Police, Tim Metcalfe, described the fire as "an absolute tragedy".

A spokesperson for the force added: "We have commenced an unexplained death investigation, led by our Major Crime Team.

"This is currently not a criminal investigation, but we will follow the evidence as our enquiries continue. We will continue to have officers at the scene for a number of days to ensure the public remain safe.

"The fire and rescue service is still at the scene, dampening down the fire. Once the scene is safe, our investigators will be able to carry out enquiries at the location."

Ten fire and rescue crews were called to tackle the blaze at 6.39pm on Thursday, which prompted a major response and warnings for local residents to stay indoors.

Members of the public have left flowers and tributes at the scene of the fire on Friday, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also said the deaths were "devastating news".

"The bravery of our firefighters is astounding," he added. "Hoping those in hospital make a full and swift recovery."