"Heartbreaking" fire kills three at Scottish hotel

An investigation is under way after three people died following an early-morning blaze at a hotel in Perth.

Officers were called to a report of a fire at the New County Hotel on County Place shortly before 5.10am on Monday January 2nd.

Emergency services attended and three people were confirmed dead at the scene while eleven others from the hotel and neighbouring flats were treated by the Scottish Ambulance Service.

None of them needed hospital treatment.

DOZENS OF FIREFIGHTERS BROUGHT BLAZE UNDER CONTROL

Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Phil Davison 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."

He added that inquiries are at an early stage and that no further details of those involved will be released at this time.

11 people had treatment at the scene but did not need to go to hospital.

The police officer said: "I would like to thank the police officers, fire officers and ambulance personnel that responded to this incident this morning for their professionalism in response and to our partner agencies for the support that is being provided.

"I would ask for patience from the local community as local roads may remain closed for some time."

Also giving a statement near the scene in Perth, Jason Sharp, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service area commander for Perth, Kinross, Angus and Dundee, said: "This was a very complex incident where tragically three people were pronounced dead at the scene.

"Our thoughts are very much with the immediate family and friends at this difficult time.

"Our firefighters worked extremely hard in a very complex and challenging environment to prevent the further spread of fire and damage where possible .

"At its height, we had nine fire appliances in attendance with over 60 firefighters.

"We're currently still in attendance to make sure the scene is safe. I would like to thank our crews and our other emergency partners and local authority for their support.

"Our firefighters and community action teams have and will continue to engage to ensure safety in this area and we will continue to work closely with stakeholders and Police Scotland in any subsequent investigation."

PEOPLE OF PERTH "DEVASTATED"

Deputy First Minister John Swinney described the fatalities as "heartbreaking news".

Mr Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, tweeted: "My sympathies with all affected by this tragedy."

There has been reaction too from local MP Pete Wishart who said the fire was "simply awful news at the beginning of the year when so many people are out celebrating".

Mr Wishart, who represents Perth and North Perthshire, added: "My thoughts are firmly with the families and friends of the victims.

"When the news broke, we all hoped that everyone would make it out and would be accounted for. This is the last thing that anybody expected.

"I know the people of Perth will be devastated by this news and would like to extend their deepest sympathies to those affected by this tragedy.

"Can I also thank the emergency services who attended the scene in such numbers."

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