Three people and a pet dog have perished in a horror hotel fire early this morning.
Guests were evacuated from the New County Hotel in Perth, Scotland, when the alarm was raised at around 5am as emergency crews raced to the scene.
However Police Scotland confirmed three people and a dog died in this morning's tragedy, prompting a joint investigation with Scottish Fire and Rescue.
It is understood the bodies were removed from the hotel into waiting private ambulances at around noon.
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.”
Deputy First Minister John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, said: "Heartbreaking news emerging from Perth this morning.
"My sympathies with all affected by this tragedy."
He earlier said: "Grateful thanks, as ever, to the emergency services for their actions."
Emergency services, including 21 ambulance crews and nine fire engines, were called to the property in County Square.
Police Scotland earlier confirmed guests had been evacuated from the city centre hotel.
A number of roads in the city centre have been cordoned off as a result of the emergency.
A spokesman added: "Police Scotland can confirm that three people have died following a fire at the New County Hotel, County Place, Perth.
"Shortly before 5.10am on Monday, January 2, 2023, officers were called to a report of a fire at the premises.
"Emergency services attended and three people were confirmed dead at the scene. A number of others were treated for minor injuries by the Scottish Ambulance Service.
"Hotel guests and two people from a neighbouring block of flats were evacuated and are being supported by partner agencies."
Local MP Pete Wishart 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.”
Perth and Kinross Council also expressed their sorrow.
Independent councillor for Highland Perthshire, Provost Xander McDade, said: “On behalf of all councillors and staff 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.”
A spokesperson for Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: "We are currently in attendance alongside emergency service partners at a commercial building fire at County Place in Perth.
"Operations Control mobilised nine fire appliances to the scene after the alarm was raised at 5.02am on Monday, January 2."
