SCOTLAND’S First Minister has issued a statement after three people and a dog died following an early-morning fire at a Perth hotel.
An investigation is under way into the incident, which saw 60 firefighters involved in tackling the blaze at one point.
According to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the New County Hotel was the site of a “very complex incident” shortly after 5am.
Eleven people were treated at the scene without requiring hospital treatment, while guests were evacuated from the hotel.
Police confirmed that three people and a dog had died in the blaze.
Nicola Sturgeon took to Twitter after the tragic event to say: “This has been a sad and shocking incident in Perth today.
“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.”
John Swinney, the deputy first minister and MSP for the Perthshire North area, said the situation was “heartbreaking”.
And Pete Wishart, the local MP, said the fire was “simply awful news at the beginning of the year when so many people are out celebrating”.
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.”
Meanwhile on Monday, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launched a joint investigation into the incident.
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 inquiries 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.”
