According to the municipality, the major fire in the center of Hoogeveen has had a significant impact on residents and the surrounding area. Mayor Martijn Breukelman speaks of a major event, although he is relieved that no injuries were reported.
“It was indeed a major fire. Of course I was informed about it,” Breukelman said. He emphasizes that the responsibility this weekend lay with the deputy mayor. “As deputy mayor, councilor Jeroen Westendorp has maintained contact with the emergency services. He has also been on site to speak with affected residents.”
According to the mayor, the impact of the fire in the center of Hoogeveen is clearly noticeable. “First contacts today show the impact of the fire. That is of course the talk of the day,” says Breukelman. He emphasizes that it is especially important that no injuries were reported. “Of course I’m very relieved that that is the case.”
At the same time, he points out the consequences for residents who had to leave their homes at night. “A fire is simply a very serious event,” said the mayor. According to him, everyone involved was able to find shelter during the night and contact has now been made with the affected residents.
The fire broke out last night on Jonkheer de Jongestraat in the center of Hoogeveen. Just before 1 a.m. the fire probably started in a car that was under a carport. The fire then spread to neighboring homes, after which eight homes were temporarily evacuated.
The fire brigade responded with several units to prevent the fire from spreading further in the street. By morning the fire was under control. According to the Drenthe Safety Region, two homes suffered damage. The cause of the fire is not yet known and is being investigated.
