Seven Injured in Amsterdam House Explosion, Police Suspect Foul Play

Amsterdam, Netherlands – A large explosion ripped through a home on Herculesstraat in Amsterdam-Zuid late Thursday night, injuring seven people and causing significant damage to surrounding properties. Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential crime.

What Happened?

The explosion occurred around 2:00 AM local time at a residential building on Herculesstraat. The force of the blast caused a portion of the building’s portico to collapse, trapping residents inside. Firefighters responded with five fire engines and two aerial ladder trucks to extinguish the blaze and rescue those affected.

Seven individuals were treated for smoke inhalation and transported to a local hospital. Among those injured was a family with two children and a resident from a neighboring apartment, according to NH Nieuws. Two cats were also rescued from the scene by animal ambulance personnel.

Police Investigation

Police are currently investigating the cause of the explosion and are treating it as a potential criminal act. Witnesses reported seeing two individuals fleeing the scene in the direction of Marathonweg, and authorities are seeking information and security footage related to the incident, as reported by AT5.

Damage and Displacement

The explosion caused extensive damage to the building, rendering four homes uninhabitable. Three adjacent apartments have also been deemed unsafe for occupancy. Residents were evacuated from the building, some assisted by police using ladders to reach safety.

Omwonenden (local residents) reported hearing a loud blast before the fire broke out. One resident described the explosion as “gigantic” and said they were awakened by the impact, according to NH Nieuws.

Ongoing Response

Authorities continue to investigate the incident and are appealing to the public for any information that may assist in their investigation. The area remains active as emergency services work to secure the scene and assess the full extent of the damage.