Emergency Services Search for Missing Three After Boxing Day Blaze
A major emergency response unfolded in Gloucestershire in the early hours of Boxing Day following a severe house fire. Three people are currently missing and unaccounted for after the blaze tore through a property on Brimscombe Hill, near Stroud.
Timeline of the Emergency
Gloucestershire Police confirmed that emergency services were first alerted to the incident at approximately 3am on 26 December. Crews from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, alongside police and ambulance teams, rushed to the scene. One individual managed to escape the property and was subsequently transported to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital to receive treatment for their injuries.
The focus of the operation remains on locating the three other people who were believed to have been inside the home at the time of the fire. A police spokesperson stated that efforts to find them are ongoing, with the property and surrounding area being thoroughly searched.
Road Closures and Community Impact
In response to the ongoing incident, roads on Brimscombe Hill have been closed to allow emergency services to work unimpeded. Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid the area entirely to facilitate the operation and ensure safety.
Local Green Party councillor for Minchinhampton, Chloe Turner, appealed for community support. She urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation, or anyone affected who needs support, to contact the police on 101 or speak to officers at the scene.
"My thoughts are very much with everyone impacted by this tragic incident," Councillor Turner said, highlighting the close collaboration between emergency services and local councils.
Investigation into the Cause
While the primary focus is on the search, an investigation has already been launched to determine the cause of the fire. Police have not released any further details about the circumstances at this early stage, confirming only that a formal process to establish how the blaze started is now under way.
