Fatal fire in Vroomshoop investigated as possible double homicide
A fire that claimed the lives of Herman Dogger and his wife Jet in their Vroomshoop home on Friday evening is now being investigated as a potential double homicide. Authorities suspect the blaze, which broke out on Meidoornlaan, was deliberately set, possibly using an explosive device.
Shortly after firefighters extinguished the flames, police arrested a man from Ridderkerk near the scene. His connection to the fire has not been disclosed, but investigators suspect his involvement.
The fire erupted around 8 p.m. on Friday. Neighbors reported hearing a loud explosion moments before the flames engulfed the house. Some speculated the sound came from a gas cylinder explosion, while others suggested a Molotov cocktail might have been used.
Emergency responders pulled Herman and Jet Dogger from the burning house and transported them to a hospital, where they later died from their injuries.
Neighbors described the sound as "a deep bang." One resident stated, "I thought someone was firing a carbide cannon in the street. It was such a heavy explosion."
Speculation surrounds the motive for the alleged attack. Friends of the victims suggested a prolonged dispute may have been a factor. However, police have not confirmed this theory, citing an ongoing investigation.
Several neighbors claimed that earlier on Friday, a heated argument occurred between Herman Dogger and the Ridderkerk suspect over the sale of a young dog through the classified ads website Marktplaats. The disagreement reportedly escalated into a confrontation.
On Saturday afternoon, a police forensic unit arrived at the scene, treating the incident as a severe criminal case. Police have so far stated only that the arrested man is suspected of involvement in the fire. It remains unclear whether he acted alone or with accomplices.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is being held in full custody and is represented by the Enschede-based law firm Kalk and Ural. Authorities have not revealed his age or any potential motive.
Until Friday, no homicides had been reported in the region in 2024.
