Devastating video footage captured the moment a fire engulfed the historic Vondelkerk church in Amsterdam during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The church, dating back to the 19th Century and located near Vondelpark, caught fire around 12:45 am, with its tower collapsing shortly after 1 am, raising concerns about the fire spreading to nearby buildings.
Numerous residences in the vicinity were evacuated due to smoke and falling debris posing risks to locals. James Pearson, 39, who was celebrating the new year with friends, filmed the blaze as it unfolded. The cause of the fire remains unknown, although local reports suggest it might have been triggered by a firework.
The tower sustained significant damage to its central portion and roof, while the side walls remained standing. James, a researcher at the University of Amsterdam, recounted how they became aware of the fire during a New Year’s party and witnessed the fire spreading down the spire before its collapse, prompting fears of adjacent buildings catching fire.
Firefighters faced challenges from strong winds hindering their firefighting efforts. Despite the roof collapsing, authorities confirmed no further risk of structural failure.
