Police name firefighters and member of public killed at former RAF base in Bicester
Two firefighters who died at a former RAF base in Bicester have been named by police as Jennie Logan, 30, and Martyn Sadler, 38.
A member of the public, 57-year-old local man David Chester, was also killed.
The ex-RAF base in the Oxfordshire town hosts Bicester Motion, a group of classic car restoration and engineering businesses.
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said one of those killed was a leading London firefighter and sub-officer on "retained duty" with the Oxfordshire Fire Service (OFRS).
The second firefighter was also part of OFRS.
Bicester Motion said in a statement "a close friend of the site" had died in the blaze.
Emergency services were called to the scene at 6.39pm on Thursday.
Two other firefighters sustained serious injuries and are being treated in hospital, said Oxfordshire County Council.
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall announced the deaths earlier on Friday.
"It is with a very heavy heart that we today report the loss of two of our firefighters. Families have been informed and are being supported," he said.
"Our thoughts are with them at this most difficult of times and we ask for privacy to be respected."
He appeared to hold back tears as he talked about how "proud and grateful" he was for "the unwavering bravery demonstrated by all the emergency services personnel".
Footage on social media showed plumes of black smoke and flames swallowing the large building.
Kieran McGurk, who lives opposite Bicester Motion, said he heard "multiple explosions" and "loud bangs". Another resident - who gave her name only as Ellie - said she "heard loads of pops and crackles and bangs".
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe said Thames Valley Police are investigating but the fire is not currently being treated as a criminal matter.
Bicester Motion said in a statement: "There are no words at times like this, but our thoughts and prayers are with (the victims') families and loved ones.
"We pray for the two firefighters in hospital. The bravery shown by the emergency services teams has been overwhelming.
"We are grateful for all the support and especially the exceptional work by all in such unprecedented circumstances."
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the deaths were "devastating news" and he hoped "those in hospital make a full and swift recovery".
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said her "heart goes out to the families of those people who have lost their lives and those who are still on the front line".
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