A floral tribute has been laid near the scene of a fatal Perth hotel fire – with locals expressing their shock at the tragic incident.
Three people died when the New County Hotel went up in flames early on Monday.
An investigation into what caused the fire is under way.
A small police presence remains at the scene, while investigators have been seen going in and out of the building throughout Tuesday.
‘It’s such a tragedy’
Several city residents have expressed their sadness at the incident.
Christopher Amos, 28, said: “It’s such a tragedy, it’s really terrible what happened.
“You hear about these things happening in other cities but when it happens locally it hits you differently.”
Paige Hutchison was due to move into a flat next door to the hotel on County Place, and has been left in limbo about whether that will go ahead.
The 17-year-old said: “The fire was really horrible and it’s so sad seeing people and a dog die.
“I feel sad for the families, especially at this time of year.
“I’m getting a flat next door because I’m homeless and I’m meant to be moving in at the end of the month.
“I’m worried there’s going to be damage that will stop me getting the flat or I’ll have to wait longer to get another place.
“The fire will have an impact, you don’t get many fires in Perth.”
‘I just can’t believe it’
Hairdresser Willeen Hunter only discovered what had happened when she attended her hair salon nearby on Monday morning.
She told The Courier: “I came up yesterday to put my heating on and one of the ladies asked if I was OK after what happened.
“She told me three people had died and a dog. I just can’t believe it.”
Willeen used to visit the hotel regularly for a drink after work, but says it is not often open now.
She added: “It’s been awful, you couldn’t imagine what the people inside must have been going through, and the dog.
“If that was one of my family who died like that, I couldn’t imagine how it would feel.”
Resident Yasmin Simpson, 65, said: “I can’t believe how quickly it took hold, it’s a tragedy seeing that happen to three people.
“It’s really sad and a terrible thing to happen. It’s so close to home too when it happens in the town you live in.
“I’ve never been in the hotel or stayed there but I know it was refurbished not long ago.”
Earlier on Tuesday, a dad who was staying in the hotel with his family told The Courier of the moment he fled as the flames took hold.
A fire safety expert has also revealed what will happen next as part of the investigation.
Conversation