A significant explosion in the center of Utrecht resulted in a large fire, injuring four individuals. The incident occurred on Visscherssteeg street following at least two loud blasts that were reported to the emergency services around 3:30 PM. The Utrecht Safety Region described the situation as a “gigantic explosion.”
Explosion Details and Emergency Response
Following the blasts, emergency personnel quickly responded to the scene. Streets, including Springweg and Mariaplaats, were cordoned off for safety. By 5:00 PM, the fire had spread to a nearby bakery, complicating the firefighting efforts. Authorities reported that the area remains too dangerous for entry due to the risk of building collapse.
- Total injuries: 4
- Time of first reports: 3:30 PM
- Time of fire expansion: 5:00 PM
Local Impact and Evacuations
Nearby residents experienced significant trauma, with reports of shattered windows and extensive damage. Due to the situation, approximately 50 residents were relocated to the nearby Grand Hotel Karel V for safety and assistance.
Utrecht’s mayor, Sharon Dijksma, visited the site of the explosion. In collaboration with the safety region, a calamity hospital was established in the city center. Such measures are typically reserved for major incidents involving numerous casualties. The last instance of this type of response occurred during a train accident in Voorschoten earlier in 2023.
Witness Accounts of the Explosion
Witnesses described the chaos and destruction that ensued post-explosion. Patrick Tomassen worked in a nearby parking garage and reported that the facility shook violently. He recalled, “We heard a very loud bang. The garage shook up and down, and we ran outside to see people injured and debris everywhere.”
- Witness: Patrick Tomassen
- Experiences: Garage shaking, immediate panic
Margot Schroevers, located around 200 meters from the explosion, explained, “The ground trembled. I immediately knew something was wrong.” She noted the rapid movement of bystanders toward the scene and indicated shattered windows spread about 100 meters from the blast.
Continued Efforts by Authorities
Due to the severity of the incident, emergency services escalated operations to GRIP-2, allowing for additional resources from surrounding areas. The local Red Cross has deployed 20 volunteers to assist both the response teams and care for light injuries. A specialized team of nine professionals is also present to support the emergency hospital.
As the situation evolves, El-Balad continues to monitor developments. Further updates regarding the explosion and fire in Utrecht will be provided as information becomes available.
