2024 The Hague explosion
| Date | December 7, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Time | 06:15 (CET) |
| Location | Mariahoeve neighborhood of The Hague, Netherlands |
| Type | Explosion |
| Cause | Under investigation |
| Deaths | 5[1] |
| Non-fatal injuries | 3 |
| Property damage | Five apartment flats destroyed |
On the early morning of December 7, 2024, a major explosion occurred in the Mariahoeve neighborhood of The Hague, Netherlands, resulting in multiple fatalities, injuries, and significant damage to several residential buildings. The explosion prompted a large-scale emergency response and investigation into the cause of the explosion.[2]
Disaster
The explosion and resulting fire occurred before dawn in the northeastern district of Mariahoeve, at approximately 06:15 local time (05:15 GMT). Local residents reported hearing a massive explosion and screams, with some initially mistaking the event for an earthquake. The blast destroyed five apartment units and led to the evacuation of 40 adjacent apartments.[2]
At least four people were killed as a result of the explosion.[1]
Response
Emergency services deployed a specialized urban search and rescue team who had participated in rescue efforts following the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquakes, including four trained sniffer dogs and an excavator to remove debris, to the disaster site. Local authorities evacuated neighboring buildings as a precautionary measure. Emergency services rescued four individuals from the debris, who were subsequently hospitalized, including one reported to be a child. Search operations continued for possible additional victims.[2][1]
Reactions
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof issued a statement expressing shock at the disaster and extending sympathies to victims and emergency responders.[2]
Mayor of The Hague Jan van Zanen stated that the likelihood of finding additional survivors was minimal following initial rescue efforts, telling the community to be ready for the "worst case scenario".[1]
Dutch Police Commissioner Janny Knol acknowledged the incident's impact on community sentiment, citing "disbelief and uncertainty."[1]
Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima issued a statement expressing sympathy for those affected by the disaster and those concerned about missing loved ones.[1]
Investigation
The cause of the explosion remained under investigation, with Mayor of The Hague Jan van Zanen stating that authorities were examining all possibilities. Law enforcement expressed interest in a vehicle reportedly leaving the scene "at very high speed",[1] considering it potentially relevant to their investigation.[2]