News report | 09-01-2026 | 13:53
The Public Prosecution Service of North Holland has made a decision in the investigation into the explosion and subsequent fire at an apartment complex in Heerhugowaard on April 10, 2025. Four apartments were severely damaged and there was a risk of collapse. Five people sustained minor injuries. An investigation was launched after the explosion.
In total, five suspects were arrested in this investigation: a 19-year-old suspect from Opmeer and four minors from the municipality of Dijk en Waard. All five suspects were present in the residence where the explosion occurred. The investigation shows that the explosive, a small jerrycan with flammable substance and two cobra fireworks, detonated inside the residence.
Two suspects must appear in court
Two of the five suspects will be prosecuted. The 19-year-old man is currently in custody and is being prosecuted for causing the explosion, possession of an explosive (together with the other suspect), and preparatory acts to cause an explosion. No intended target has been identified.
One minor, a 17-year-old boy from Dijk en Waard, will be prosecuted for possession of an explosive (together with the 19-year-old suspect). There is insufficient evidence that the 17-year-old was involved in causing the explosion and the resulting fire. Therefore, he will not be prosecuted for that fact.
Both suspects must answer to the court.
Other three suspects not prosecuted
According to the Public Prosecution Service, there is no or insufficient lawful and convincing evidence that the other three minors played a criminal role in possessing and igniting the explosive. The investigation showed that the three minors entered the residence on April 10 and were confronted with the explosive, but there is no lawful and convincing evidence of active and criminal acts with that explosive. They will not be prosecuted: their cases are dismissed due to lack of lawful and convincing evidence.