Two parents and their daughter killed in Hague explosion; Their son, 8, among survivors
Three of the six victims killed in Saturday’s explosions at the Tarwekamp in The Hague were members of the same family, according to a statement released by a support organization on behalf of the family. The victims included a 45-year-old father, a 41-year-old mother, and their 17-year-old daughter. An eight-year-old son, the only surviving member of the household, is now being cared for by relatives.
The family’s statement described their devastation following the tragedy. “The grief over the loss of our loved ones is immense,” the statement read. “At the same time, the care for the young son demands all our love and attention.” The family also expressed gratitude to emergency responders and to the schools attended by the children for their support and condolences.
Six people died in the explosions, which destroyed five homes in the Mariahoeve district. Authorities have identified four of the victims: the three family members from The Hague and a 31-year-old man from Voorburg.
Emergency response efforts concluded on Monday, with the fire department confirming that no additional victims were found.
The cause of the explosions remains under investigation, but authorities have indicated that criminal activity is suspected. The Public Prosecution Service (OM) is exploring potential links to a deliberate act, and police are searching for the driver of a car seen fleeing the scene at high speed immediately after the incident.
On Monday, police spokespersons dismissed speculation, including rumors circulated on social media, that the explosion was caused by a drug lab. “There is no evidence that a drug lab was present at the site of the explosion,” a spokesperson stated.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof visited the disaster site on Sunday, offering a brief statement of sympathy for those affected.
Reporting by ANP and NL Times
