Two firefighters and one other person die after fire at former RAF base in Oxfordshire
The firefighters died while fighting the inferno at a former RAF base in Oxfordshire, which now hosts historic motoring and aviation centre Bicester Motion.
Bicester Motion said in a statement that "a close friend of the site" also died in the blaze.
The local fire service was called to the scene at 6.39pm last night.
Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall said: "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.
"Our thoughts are with them at this most difficult of times and we ask for privacy to be respected."
Local councillor Liam Walker also shared the "devastating" news of the three deaths, adding that his "thoughts are with the families and friends at this difficult time".
Two other firefighters sustained serious injuries and are currently being treated in hospital, Oxfordshire County Council said in a statement.
Footage shared on social media shows black plumes of smoke billowing into the sky 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 saw a "big black plume of smoke" coming out of the Bicester Motion buildings on Thursday night.
"I heard loads of pops and crackles and bangs. It was quite bad. It was so weird because I had my blinds shut at the time and I was like what is going on," she said.
"It was crazy and then I looked out the window and saw it."
Ten fire crews attended the incident, with four remaining at the scene. The blaze is still ongoing, but it is considered under control.
Police officers erected a cordon and remained at the entrance to Bicester Motion on Friday, while a fire engine and ambulance could be seen leaving the scene.
Local residents were asked last night to remain indoors and keep their windows shut, but this advice has now been lifted.
Bicester Motion, which was formerly known as Bicester Heritage, 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 in the blaze were "devastating news", adding that he hopes "those in hospital make a full and swift recovery".
The Bicester airfield, which is "the most complete and strongly representative example of an RAF airbase", according to Historic England, will remain closed over the weekend.
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
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