Explosion at Vlaardingen apartment allegedly linked to drug criminal's son
An early morning explosion at an apartment complex on Robert Schumanring in Vlaardingen caused extensive damage and displaced residents, police reported Saturday. Authorities confirmed the blast was deliberate, and reports from AD link the incident to the son of René F., a convicted drug criminal from Schiedam.
While police have not officially confirmed a motive, AD reports that the target of the blast was the son of René F., a convicted drug dealer recently released from prison. In 2023, René F. was sentenced to 2.5 years for trafficking precursors used in synthetic drug production. His family has been the target of multiple attacks over the years. In 2022, René F.'s home on Heelmeesterstraat in Schiedam was closed by order of the mayor after several explosions. His 76-year-old mother's house in Ridderkerk was also damaged in two separate incidents involving explosives.
The explosion occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m., heavily damaging the building and forcing the evacuation of 18 homes. Two residents were treated at the scene by paramedics but did not require hospitalization. Emergency services evacuated residents to a nearby care center, where victim support was provided. Some residents were allowed to return later that morning, though others remain displaced due to structural damage and ongoing investigations.
The blast blew the stairwell doors off their frames, shattered windows, and scattered debris throughout the building. “I woke up to an enormous bang and thought the ceiling was coming down,” said a neighbor of René F.'s son to AD. "This is unsettling. Fortunately, I can stay with my parents nearby."
Another resident expressed frustration over the ease with which the suspects accessed the building. "The stairwell is freely accessible. We need to discuss installing a lock with the homeowners' association," they said.
Police forensic teams are conducting a thorough investigation, collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing security camera footage. Witnesses reported seeing two teenagers, aged about 15 or 16, fleeing the scene on a fat bike after the explosion.
"Anyone with information or camera footage is urged to contact us," police said in a statement. Tips can also be submitted anonymously.
Last weekend, another attack reportedly targeted René F.'s former residence, which has since been sold. Witnesses said suspects attempted to break a reinforced kitchen window but fled when interrupted. Despite being unoccupied, the property has continued to attract criminal attention.
Vlaardingen Mayor Bert Wijbenga visited the scene and condemned the attack. “It’s outrageous that this has happened. Residents, including small children, were deeply shaken,” he said. Victim support services are being provided to affected residents.
Police have not confirmed whether arrests have been made. Residents with information about the incident are encouraged to come forward.
