Three people and a dog have died following Scots hotel blaze - fire service confirms
'What a tragic start to 2023. My thoughts go out to the loved ones of those who have died'
Last updated 2nd Jan 2023
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed three people and a dog have died following a fire at a Scots hotel this morning (Monday).
Emergency services raced to the New County Hotel in Perth after the alarm was raised shortly after 5am, and surrounding streets in the city centre were sealed off.
A number of hotel guests, as well as two people from a neighbouring block of flats, were evacuated.
More than 20 ambulance crews and nine fire trucks were among those to respond to the call.
According to the Scottish Ambulance Service, a number of other people were treated for minor injuries.
Chief Superintendent Phil Davison, from Police Scotland, said: “Our thoughts are very much with the families and loved ones of those who have died at what is a very difficult time for everyone.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what has happened and officers are conducting a joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”
A police cordon is in place and members of the public are asked to avoid the area.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney, who is the local MSP, Tweeted: "Heartbreaking news emerging from #Perth this morning. My sympathies with all affected by this tragedy."
And Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross added: "What a tragic start to 2023. My thoughts go out to the loved ones of those who have died."
Perth & Kinross Council is warning of road closures in Hospital Street, County Place, Leonard Street and New Row as emergency services responded to the early-morning drama.
Local councillor Eric Drysdale said: "At any time of the year, incidents such as this would be dreadful, but especially in the festive period, it is just shocking."
A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesperson added: "We received a call from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service of a fire at the New County Hotel in Fife at 05:05hrs. We responded with 21 resources including our Special Operation Resource Team, with our first resource on scene at 05:12hrs.”