Investigation under way after three killed in Perth city centre hotel fire

Investigations are continuing into a hotel fire in Perth which claimed the lives of three people and a dog.

More than 60 firefighters were called to tackle the blaze at the New County Hotel in Perth, just after 5am on Monday.

Guests were evacuated, as were two people staying in a neighbouring block of flats.

Three people died at the scene, and 11 were treated by medics but did not need hospital treatment.

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

Police Scotland and the fire service have launched a probe into the circumstances surrounding the blaze. STV News

Officers remain at the hotel on Tuesday and cordons are in place around the area.

Tents which had been put in place by emergency services outside the hotel have been removed, and inside the building investigators in hard hats could be seen.

Blue plastic sheeting covered windows on the top floor of the building.

Tributes have poured in for those killed, led by Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

In a post on Twitter, she described it as a “sad and shocking incident”.

Smoke billowing from the hotel after the fire was brought under control. STV News

She said: “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, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the three people who passed away following the fire at the New County Hotel.

“This tragic incident is not the way any of us would want to see 2023 begin and my heartfelt condolences go to everyone impacted by this fire.”

Deputy First Minister John Swinney described the fatalities as “heart-breaking news”.

The New County Hotel in Perth was evacuated on Monday. STV News

Swinney, the MSP for Perthshire North, tweeted: “My sympathies with all affected by this tragedy.”

Jason Sharp, the fire service’s area commander, said it was a “very complex incident”.

Speaking near the scene in Perth on Monday, Mr Sharp added: “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.”