A significant fire broke out at Bernie's Beachclub on the boulevard of Zandvoort on Sunday, turning the popular beach establishment to ashes. The blaze was first reported at approximately 4:50 PM, prompting immediate response from local fire services.
According to reports from the Safety Region Kennemerland, the structural integrity of the beach club was heavily compromised, with its floor collapsing due to the intensity of the flames. "The floor is gone, so it can't be extinguished from the inside anymore," stated the spokesperson from the Safety Region. To combat the fire, firefighters had to establish external control measures, effectively allowing the structure to burn out under regulated conditions.
Witnesses reported thick smoke billowing from the site, leading public safety officials to issue advisories to nearby residents to keep their windows and doors sealed tight. The spokesperson emphasized, "We advise residents to keep windows and doors closed, and to turn off automatic air conditioning, or it will let air in." This precaution was necessary as thick smoke filled the surrounding area, posing health risks to nearby individuals.
The beach club belonged to Prince Bernhard and his business partner Menno de Jong. Initial investigations by authorities suggest the fire may have been deliberately set. The fire department had discovered signs of potential arson near outbuildings on the premises. A police spokesperson reported, "The fire seems to have been started intentionally, and we have found signs of arson near outbuildings," highlighting the urgent nature of their investigation.
Adding to the severity of the situation, reports indicate local youth were allegedly seen near the establishment shortly before the fire erupted. This has led to the arrest of three minors, suspected of involvement in the arson incident. Although the police did not disclose additional details about the suspects due to their age, they confirmed they are actively searching for two more individuals linked to the preliminary reports of five youths congregated nearby.
Firefighters faced additional challenges due to the construction materials of the beach club. Although it had many sturdy stone features, significant wooden components facilitated fast progression of the flames, especially with high winds adding fuel to the fire's voracity. "At first, there were concerns about potential dune fires, but the fire department has managed to prevent this," remarked the spokesperson from the fire department. This widespread concern had stemmed from the fear of yet another uncontrolled fire spreading to the surrounding dune areas.
Both locals and visitors were affected by this sudden disaster, leading to temporary road closures, particularly on Zeeweg, as fire control and police investigation operations unfolded. Public transport provider Connexxion also announced adjustments to bus schedules as emergency services worked to manage the situation.
Despite the extensive response from firefighters, the beach club is now deemed beyond saving, with no casualties reported as the building was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Authorities are committed to investigating the incident thoroughly and ensuring those responsible face appropriate consequences.
The tragic loss of Bernie's Beachclub not only impacts its owners but also the Zandvoort community, where the venue served as a lively spot for relaxation and entertainment. Look for more updates on this incident as the investigation continues to progress.
