A MAN has tragically died in a horror blaze at a four-storey building.
Around 40 people were forced to leave their homes after the fire broke out in Perth in the early hours of Saturday.
A man was pronounced dead at the scene, on Scott Street, while an eight-year-old girl and a 27-year-old man were taken to hospital for treatment.
Two firefighters also sustained minor injuries and received medical attention.
Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Nicola Russell, Divisional Commander for Tayside, said: “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this incident.
“Investigations are at a very early stage to establish the full circumstances of what has happened.
“We are conducting a joint investigation with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”
First Minister John Swinney, the MSP for Perthshire North, wrote on social media: “Terribly sorry to hear of the death of a man in the fire in Scott Street, Perth.
“I express my sympathy to his family.
“Concerned also for the condition of those who are receiving hospital treatment.
“This is a major incident and I am thankful to the emergency services.”
Kinross Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Eric Drysdale, added: “I would like to send sincere condolences to the family and friends of the man who has tragically lost his life in this incident.
“My thoughts are also with all the other people who have been affected by this very serious fire. “
“I wish to praise the significant immediate response from all the first responders and especially our brave firefighters who hurried towards this major fire and put their lives at risk to rescue occupants from the building and tackle the blaze.”
The blaze was discovered by police officers patrolling the area at around 1.50am.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Ambulance Service were also alerted and raced to the scene.
Neighbouring blocks of flats were evacuated, with residents being supported by partner agencies.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Andy Girrity of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “On arrival, firefighters found the roof of a four-storey residential building well alight.
“Initially, three appliances were mobilised, but due to the severity of the blaze and structural collapses, a total of twelve appliances were involved at the height of the incident.
“Five casualties, including one firefighter injured by falling masonry, were passed into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service.
“The incident has now been scaled back, and two appliances and one height vehicle remain on scene to dampen down hot spots.”
Road closures remain in place at Scott Street and South Street, with members of the public asked to avoid the area.
A temporary airspace restriction has also been put place for the Scott Street and South Street areas of Perth until Wednesday.
The restrictions include drones. Cops said anyone found in breach could be committing a criminal offence.
A rest centre for evacuated residents has also been set up at the Salutation Hotel.
Those displaced have been promised “suitable alternative accommodation” in addition to food, clothes, replacement medication, toiletries, toys and help with their pets.
