Three individuals are still missing following a severe house fire that tore through a property in Stroud, Gloucestershire, in the early hours of Boxing Day. Emergency services rushed to the scene on Brimscombe Hill at approximately 3am after receiving urgent calls.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Gloucestershire Police confirmed that officers attended alongside crews from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and ambulance teams. One person managed to escape the burning building and was subsequently taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital for treatment. Their current condition has not been disclosed.
The police spokeswoman stated that three other people, who were believed to have been inside the residential property at the time, have not yet been located. Search efforts to find them are ongoing as emergency workers continue to deal with the aftermath of the blaze.
Ongoing Disruption and Investigation
The incident has caused significant local disruption. Roads on Brimscombe Hill remain closed while emergency services conduct their work at the scene. Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area to allow operations to proceed unimpeded.
An investigation is now underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. The police spokeswoman added that establishing the origin of the blaze is a key priority for investigators.
Community Reaction and Support
Local councillor Chloe Turner, who represents Minchinhampton on Stroud District Council for the Green Party, issued a statement expressing her sympathy. "My thoughts are very much with everyone impacted by this tragic incident," she said.
Councillor Turner urged anyone in the community with information that could assist the investigation to come forward. She also offered support to those affected, directing people to call 101 or speak to police at the scene. "The emergency services and councils are working closely together, but if you have any problems, please let me know," she added.
The community now waits anxiously for news as the emergency services continue their critical work on Brimscombe Hill.
