Harrowing footage taken from a Perth hotel fire which left three people dead has shown flames ripping through the building early this morning.
Emergency services raced to County Place in the Fair City at around 5.10am following reports of the blaze breaking out in the New County Hotel.
Three people were confirmed dead at the scene. Eleven others were treated for minor injuries. A shocking video taken from outside the hotel shows flames bursting through a window as firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire.
A fire engine can be scene outside the hotel with blue flashing lights, with officers heard shouting in the background. Nine appliances and 60 firefighters were on the scene for several hours tackling the blaze.
Chief Superintendent Phil Davison told reporters gathered behind the fire-struck hotel earlier today that a dog also died in the fire.
He added: “Just after 5am today emergency services attended at reports of a fire at the New County Hotel in Perth. I can confirm that three people have sadly died at the scene.
“A number of hotel guests and two people from a neighbouring block of flats were evacuated and are being supported by partner agencies at this time. From those that were evacuated I can confirm that 11 people were given treatment by the Scottish Ambulance Service that did not require hospitalisation. I can also confirm that a dog has died at the scene."
Davison offered his heartfelt condolences to those affected and thanked the emergency services for their efforts.
He added: “Our thoughts are very much with the families and loved ones of those who have died and of those affected by this incident at what is clearly a very difficult time for everyone.
"Enquiries are now ongoing to establish the full set of circumstances of what has happened this morning and our officers are working closely in joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
“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 sometime.”
Jason Sharp, SFRS area commander said it was a complex incident.
He explained: “This was a very complex incident where tragically three people were pronounced dead at the scene. Our thoughts are very much with 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 are currently still in attendance to make sure the scene is safe. I’d like to thank our crews and our other emergency partners and local authorities for their support.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon called the fire a "sad and shocking incident".
Taking to Twitter, she wrote: "My deepest condolences are with the bereaved and my thoughts with all those involved. I am also hugely grateful to the firefighters who responded and to our other emergency services."
Perth and Kinross Provost Xander McDade said: “On behalf of all Councillors and staff at Perth and Kinross Council our thoughts are with the family and friends of the three people who passed away following the fire at the New County Hotel in Perth this morning.
"This tragic incident is not the way any of us would want to see 2023 begin and I my heartfelt condolences go to everyone impacted by this fire.”
Local MSP and Deputy First Minister John Swinney posted on Facebook: "Very concerned to hear this news and hope that everyone is safe. Grateful thanks, as ever, to the emergency services for their actions."
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