Three remain missing after Boxing Day Gloucestershire house fire
Another person managed to escape and was rushed to hospital
Last updated 31 minutes ago
Three people remain unaccounted for after a house fire in the early hours of Boxing Day, police said.
Emergency services were called to a property on Brimscombe Hill, near Stroud, Gloucestershire at about 3am.
In an update on Saturday morning, Gloucestershire Police said the coroner had been informed, as is standard practice.
A spokeswoman added: "An investigation has been launched alongside Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the fire.
"A cordon remains in place at the address and an emergency services presence is expected to continue for several days."
One person was taken to hospital for treatment and three others were unaccounted for early on Saturday morning.
A Gloucestershire Police spokeswoman said: "Officers attended the scene along with crews from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and the ambulance service.
"One person, who was able to get out of the property, was taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital to be treated.
"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."
Roads are closed on Brimscombe Hill while emergency services are at the scene and people are being asked to avoid the area.
An investigation is underway to establish the cause of the fire, the spokeswoman added.
Tributes
Simon Opher, Labour MP for Stroud said: "Our hearts go out to those involved."
Adding: "I have been in touch with the police to offer our support. While it is the role of the emergency services to deal with this sort of situation, it always affects those involved, and we thank them for their professionalism. Our thoughts are with you all."
Chloe Turner, who represents Minchinhampton on Stroud District Council for the Green Party, said: "If anyone in the community has information that may assist in the investigation, or needs any support as a result of the incident, please call 101 or let the on-site police know, and they will direct you to the appropriate agency.
"The emergency services and councils are working closely together, but if you have any problems, please let me know.
"My thoughts are very much with everyone impacted by this tragic incident."