Two sisters and one man killed in Perth New County Hotel fire named

Two sisters and a man who died in a hotel fire in Perth earlier this week have been named by police.

Donna Janse Van Rensburg, 44, and Sharon McLean, 47, both from Aberdeen, and “loving father” Keith Russell, 38, originally from Edinburgh, died when over 60 firefighters were called to tackle the blaze at the New County Hotel.

Ms Van Rensburg’s dog, Joey, a three year-old King Charles spaniel, also died in the incident shortly after 5am on January 2.

An investigation has since been launched into the cause of the fire amid reports that health and safety protocols assessed by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) three weeks before the fire deemed them inappropriate.

Ms Van Rensburg's dog, Joey also died in the incident. (Image: Police Scotland) — Ms Van Rensburg’s dog, Joey also died in the incident. (Image: Police Scotland)

In a short statement, Mr Russell’s family said: “Keith was a loving father and loved by all his family. He will be greatly missed.”

Chief superintendent Phil Davison said: “Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of those who died as well as the many people affected by this incident.

“A joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is ongoing and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

“I would like to again thank all the emergency services and partner agencies involved as well as the local community for their patience while enquiries are carried out.”

STV News previously reported that guests at the hotel had previously raised concerns over electric items provided.

An SFRS audit highlighted eight key areas of concern, with changes to be implemented within 28 days, according to The Courier.

It revealed issues with emergency lighting, fire doors and escape routes at the city centre hotel.

Speaking with STV at the time, deputy First Minister John Swinney urged anyone staying at the hotel who had concerns to speak with police.

On Tuesday, officers remained at the hotel and cordons were in place around the area.

Jason Sharp, the fire service’s area commander, said it was a 'very complex incident'. — Jason Sharp, the fire service’s area commander, said it was a ‘very complex incident’. Lukas Kuba

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

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

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 said: “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.”