Two women and a man killed in Perth hotel fire

The three people killed in the blaze on Monday morning have been identified as Sharon McLean, Donna Janse Van Rensburg and Keith Russell

Sharon McLean (left), Donna Janse Van and Keith Russell (right)
Author: Dale EatonPublished 6th Jan 2023
Last updated 6th Jan 2023

Police Scotland have confirmed the three people killed in the blaze in the early hours of Monday morning at the New County Hotel in Perth were two woman and a man.

They have been named as sisters Donna Janse Van Rensburg, aged 44, and Sharon McLean, aged 47, both from Aberdeen, and Keith Russell, aged 38, originally from Edinburgh.

Donna’s dog, a three year-old King Charles spaniel named Joey, also died.

Donna Janse Van Rensburg and her dog Joey

Both families have asked for privacy.

Keith’s family has released the following statement: “Keith was a loving father and loved by all his family. He will be greatly missed.”

Chief Superintendent Phil Davison said: “Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of those who died as well as the many people affected by this incident.

“A joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is ongoing and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

“I would like to again thank all the emergency services and partner agencies involved as well as the local community for their patience while enquiries are carried out.”

More to follow.

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