Perth fire: 3 people and a dog killed in a hotel fire

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An investigation has been launched after three people and a dog died when a fire broke out in the early morning at a hotel in Scotland.

At its height, more than 60 firefighters were involved in tackling the blaze, which the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service described as a “very complex incident”. Guests were evacuated from the hotel, as were two people staying in an adjacent apartment building.

Emergency services, including 21 ambulance crew and nine fire engines, were called to the New County Hotel in County Place, Perth, just after 5am on Monday. Eleven people were treated at the scene but did not require hospital treatment.

Police Scotland said they were investigating the deadly fire, which occurred on Monday morning

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Deputy First Minister John Sweeney called the deaths “heartbreaking news”, and tweeted: “My sympathies go out to all those affected by this tragedy”.

Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have launched a joint investigation into the incident.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Chief Jason Sharp said: “Our firefighters have worked hard in a very complex and challenging environment to prevent further spread of the fire and damage wherever possible.

“At its height, we had nine firefighters in attendance, with over 60 firefighters. We are still present today to make sure the scene is safe.”

Dozens of firefighters battled a blaze in Perth, Scotland

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The fire service confirmed that 11 people were treated for minor injuries at the scene, but none were taken to hospital.

Roads around the hotel were closed off and the public was asked to avoid the area.

The road was closed and the public urged to stay away from the area

(PA)

Chief Superintendent Phil Davison said: “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have passed away, at a very difficult time for everyone.

“Our investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened, and officers are carrying out a joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”

The deputy leader of Perth and Kinross council, councilor Eric Drysdale, told the audience the incident was “extremely serious”.

He added: “All announcements regarding any confirmed infections will be made by the emergency services.

“The roads around the venue, specifically County Place, Leonard Street, New Row and Hospital Street, are closed. Please avoid the area today.”

Local MP Pete Wishart said the fire was “simply terrible news at the start of the year when so many people went out to celebrate”.

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

Emergency services at the scene after the fire broke out early in the morning

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“When the news broke, we were all hoping everyone would come out and be held accountable. This is the last thing anyone expected.

“I know the people of Perth will be devastated by this news, and I want to offer their deepest condolences to those affected by this tragedy. May I also thank the emergency services who attended the scene in such numbers.”

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