Gouderak hay barn fire caused by minor negligence

A large fire in Gouderak, caused by the carelessness of three minors using fire, destroyed approximately 60 tons of hay in a barn located on the Kattendijk near the Hollandsche IJssel. The incident escalated into a major fire, resulting in significant smoke nuisance in the nearby areas of Moordrecht and Zevenhuizen.

Emergency services worked into the night to extinguish the flames, utilizing four cranes to break apart the burning hay. Following an investigation, police determined that the fire was started by the minors. Due to their young age and the apparent inability to grasp the consequences of their actions, authorities decided, in consultation with the public prosecutor, not to pursue criminal prosecution.

Additionally, the political party CDA raised questions regarding the communication from the municipality of Zuidplas. While the opposition claimed there was a delay in warnings regarding smoke inhalation, the municipality maintained that social media alerts were issued on the evening of the incident.