On the evening of April 8, 2025, a large fire broke out at the Hans van Wijk Motoren motorcycle shop located on Goudstraat in Zoetermeer. The fire department was alerted around 19:40, following multiple reports of thick black smoke billowing from the site, prompting an immediate response.
Within minutes, the situation escalated to a 'grote brand' (major fire), as firefighters realized the scale of the incident. The fire brigade quickly mobilized multiple fire stations to combat the blaze, which was spreading rapidly. By 20:05, the smoke clouds had intensified, and the flames were reported to be reaching the roof of the building.
To monitor the fire from above, the fire brigade deployed drones, a tactic that has become increasingly common in large-scale firefighting efforts. The control room also issued a NL-Alert, warning local residents about the hazardous smoke and advising them to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and turn off ventilation systems.
As the fire continued to rage, the situation warranted further escalation to a 'zeer grote brand' (very large fire) and the declaration of GRIP1, a coordinated incident response protocol. Smoke from the fire spread over the nearby N470 road, prompting authorities in the province of Zuid-Holland to monitor the situation closely. Traffic was affected, with one lane to the Lansinghage industrial area being closed off for safety reasons.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. Personnel and emergency workers managed to rescue several motorcycles, tools, and other valuable items from the burning premises. These items were relocated to a nearby business for safekeeping. However, the fire damage to the building itself was extensive, with reports indicating that the structure, which served as a workshop and storage area, could not be saved.
The fire brigade's spokesperson confirmed, "We are letting the building burn out in a controlled manner," indicating that efforts were focused on preventing further spread rather than extinguishing the flames entirely at this stage.
By 22:30, firefighters conducted environmental measurements around the site, which did not reveal any dangerous levels of smoke or toxins. Nonetheless, the fire brigade reiterated the dangers of smoke inhalation, emphasizing the need for residents to remain vigilant. A second NL-Alert was sent to nearby communities, including Lansingerland, urging residents to take precautions.
As the night wore on, the mayor of Zoetermeer, Michel Bezuijen, visited the scene to assess the situation firsthand. He expressed his sorrow over the incident, stating, "It's very sad to see such destruction in our community." His presence underscored the significance of the event for local residents and the broader community.
Throughout the evening, firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent buildings, including the shop area of the motorcycle store, which had so far remained untouched by flames. However, there were moments when the fire would flare up unexpectedly, adding to the challenges faced by the emergency services.
Residents in the vicinity were advised not to approach the incident and to allow emergency services the space they needed to operate effectively. The advice included staying indoors and avoiding exposure to the smoke, which was visible for miles around.
As the fire continued to burn, the community awaited updates from the fire brigade. The situation remained fluid, with firefighters on high alert for any changes in the fire's behavior. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with industrial fires and the importance of preparedness and quick response.
In summation, the fire at Hans van Wijk Motoren has left a significant mark on the Zoetermeer community, highlighting the bravery of first responders and the resilience of local residents. As investigations into the cause of the fire begin, the community will undoubtedly come together to support those affected by the loss.
