A powerful explosion and subsequent fire tore through a three-storey apartment block in The Hague, Netherlands, early Saturday morning, leaving two person dead and injuring three others. The blast caused part of the building to collapse, with emergency teams continuing their search for survivors.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the explosion, with police searching for a car seen leaving the scene shortly after the incident, as per reports by the BBC.
Emergency teams, including specialised urban search and rescue units, were quickly deployed to the area. Four people have been rescued from the rubble and rushed to hospital, though it remains unclear how many more might be trapped. Among the injured, local media reported that one victim is a child.
The explosion caused widespread devastation, with flames engulfing parts of the building and debris scattered across the street. Residents reported hearing a massive bang followed by screams. One local resident, 14-year-old Adam Muller, described the event as feeling “like an earthquake.” Firefighters continue to battle the blaze, while forensic investigators work to determine the cause of the explosion.
The Dutch royal family expressed their condolences, with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima sending their thoughts to those affected by the disaster. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the images of the explosion as shocking and expressed his solidarity with the victims and emergency responders.
Here’s what we know so far:
- Explosion details: The blast occurred at approximately 6.15am (local time) in the Tarwekamp area of The Hague, damaging several homes and causing part of the building to collapse.
- Rescue efforts: Four people have been pulled from the rubble and taken to hospital. Emergency teams with sniffer dogs continue searching for survivors, but parts of the site remain too dangerous to access.
- Search for suspects: Authorities are looking for a car seen leaving the scene at high speed shortly after the explosion. Police have called for witnesses to come forward, the BBC reported.
- Injuries and evacuations: At least four people are confirmed injured, with one being a child. Residents from nearby buildings have been evacuated, and ambulances are on standby for more casualties.
Local officials, including The Hague’s mayor Jan van Zanen, are coordinating rescue efforts. The Dutch royal family and national leaders have expressed their shock and sympathy.