THE HAGUE, Netherlands — Emergency responders continued their efforts on Sunday as they sifted through the wreckage of an apartment building that had been devastated by an explosion and subsequent fire, which resulted in at least five fatalities so far. Unfortunately, the chances of discovering any additional survivors appear slim.
The source of the explosion remains unknown as of now. Mayor Jan van Zanen mentioned that investigators are exploring “all possibilities” related to the incident. Authorities are also looking for a vehicle that was observed leaving the scene, believing it might provide helpful information for their investigation.
Rescue teams reported that five bodies were discovered in the aftermath, alongside the successful rescue of five individuals who sustained injuries. The mayor indicated that the rescue operation has transitioned from searching for survivors to locating any additional bodies, as the prospects for finding anyone alive under the debris are now limited. Notably, one survivor was successfully pulled from the wreckage many hours after the initial explosion.
Residents of the Mariahoeve neighborhood in northeastern The Hague reported hearing a loud bang accompanied by screams shortly before dawn. One woman described her initial reaction, suggesting that she thought an earthquake had struck the area.
Specialized urban search and rescue teams were dispatched by Dutch authorities to assist at the scene, which included four trained dogs specifically tasked with locating victims. This team had previously provided valuable support during the catastrophic earthquake in Turkey earlier in 2023.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, numerous ambulances could be seen parked nearby, prepared for a potential influx of additional casualties. A representative from the local hospital stated that they were on high alert to manage any incoming injuries.
The mayor described the day as “extremely heavy,” acknowledging the unexpected turn of events. “I had anticipated a different Saturday,” van Zanen remarked during a press briefing.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his shock upon viewing images of the disastrous event. “My thoughts are with the victims, those impacted, and the emergency service personnel currently engaged in operations at the site,” he articulated in a statement.
The Dutch royal family also conveyed their condolences. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima issued a statement expressing their thoughts for those affected in The Hague following the explosion and fire earlier this morning, particularly for those anxious about the status of their loved ones.
