THE HAGUE, Netherlands

A devastating explosion followed by a fierce fire shattered the tranquility of a residential neighborhood in The Hague early Saturday morning, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals and numerous injuries, according to local authorities.

As investigators sift through the rubble to determine the cause of this catastrophic event, Mayor Jan van Zanen revealed that all possibilities are being explored. Reports indicate that a suspicious vehicle was seen leaving the area shortly after the blast, prompting police to follow leads in hopes of uncovering vital information.

Eyewitnesses in the northeastern neighborhood of Mariahoeve described hearing a loud explosion, reminiscent of an earthquake, along with cries for help before dawn. "It sounded like the end of the world," one resident recounted, illustrating the shock amongst locals.

Emergency services quickly mobilized; three bodies have been recovered from the collapsed structure, and four individuals were rescued from the wreckage and transported to nearby hospitals. As the grim search operations evolved, Mayor van Zanen indicated that rescuers have shifted their focus from finding survivors to locating any additional victims, acknowledging the "slim chance of survival" amidst the debris.

Dutch authorities have deployed a specialized urban search and rescue team, known for their expertise in disaster situations, including their previous involvement in earthquake rescue efforts in Turkey this past year. With the urgency of the situation, ambulances were lining up nearby, ready to assist additional potential victims.

In the wake of this tragic event, government officials have expressed their condolences. Prime Minister Dick Schoof shared his shock upon viewing images from the scene and extended heartfelt thoughts to all those affected. Similarly, the Dutch royal family, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, conveyed their sympathies for those impacted by the explosion, especially for families anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones.

As investigators continue their work, The Hague is left grappling with this unimaginable tragedy, and the community is rallying together in support of those mourning the loss and seeking comfort in a time of distress. Local hospitals remain on high alert as they prepare to deal with the ongoing aftermath of this disaster.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and as authorities uncover the facts surrounding the explosion that has shaken this peaceful city to its core.