A large explosion followed by a fierce fire ripped through a residential building in the Dutch city of Utrecht on Thursday afternoon, injuring at least four people and causing extensive damage in the historic city centre.
Authorities later confirmed that the incident was caused by a gas leak, though the exact source of the leak remains unknown.
The explosion occurred near Visscherssteeg, a narrow alley close to Utrecht’s bustling central district. Witnesses described hearing a loud blast that echoed through the surrounding streets, sending shockwaves through nearby buildings.
Thick plumes of dark smoke quickly rose above the rooftops, visible from several parts of the city, as flames engulfed the affected house.
Utrecht Mayor Sharon Dijksma said that four people were injured in the incident, but reassured the public that none of the injuries were life-threatening. Emergency medical teams treated the wounded at the scene, while some were taken to hospital for further evaluation.
Firefighters arrived within minutes of the blast, battling the blaze for several hours before finally bringing it under control. The intensity of the fire and the structural damage caused by the explosion complicated their efforts, according to local emergency services.
By evening, the fire had been extinguished, but the area remained cordoned off for safety inspections.
The force of the explosion left nearby streets littered with rubble, shattered glass and debris. Several surrounding buildings suffered blown-out windows and damaged walls, while nearby shops reported broken storefronts and interior damage.
Residents living close to the scene were evacuated as a precaution, and authorities urged members of the public to avoid the area while investigations continued.
Eyewitnesses spoke of chaos in the moments following the blast. One resident told RTL News that they heard a “deafening bang,” adding that “everything in the alley was destroyed.”
Others told Dutch newspaper de Volkskrant that they felt buildings shake violently and saw windows shatter instantly.
Officials have ruled out any deliberate cause, stating there is no indication of criminal activity. However, specialists are continuing to investigate how the gas leak occurred and whether there were any warning signs prior to the explosion.
Utility companies have also been involved to ensure the surrounding gas network is safe.
Local authorities praised the swift response of emergency services and thanked residents for following evacuation instructions. Cleanup operations and structural assessments are expected to continue over the coming days, as Utrecht begins to recover from the dramatic incident that shook its city centre.