Three individuals are unaccounted for following a devastating house fire that erupted in the early hours of Boxing Day in Gloucestershire.
Emergency Services Rush to Brimscombe Hill Blaze
Police have confirmed that emergency crews were called to a property on Brimscombe Hill, near Stroud, at approximately 3am on Boxing Day morning. Officers from Gloucestershire Police attended alongside firefighters from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and paramedics from the ambulance service.
One person managed to escape the burning property and was subsequently transported to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital to receive treatment for their injuries. The condition of this individual has not been disclosed.
Ongoing Search for Missing Residents
The primary concern for authorities is the whereabouts of three other people. A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Police stated: 'Three other people, who were believed to have been inside the property, have not yet been accounted for and efforts to locate them are ongoing.'
This has prompted a large-scale search and rescue operation at the scene. The police have urged the public to assist by avoiding the vicinity to allow emergency services to work unimpeded.
Road Closures and Investigation Launched
As a result of the ongoing operation, roads on Brimscombe Hill have been closed. Local residents and motorists are being asked to find alternative routes and stay clear of the area until further notice.
Meanwhile, a formal investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the fire. Specialists will examine the scene once it is safe to do so, piecing together the events that led to this tragic incident on what is traditionally a day of celebration.
