A man died and eight people were hospitalized after a fire broke out in an apartment block in Bristol on Sunday morning.
Emergency services were called to the fire on the top floor of Twinnell House on Wills Drive in Easton shortly after 2:15 am. The Avon Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was “quickly extinguished.”
Police confirmed that a man died in the incident; Officers have notified his relatives. Eight others are currently receiving treatment in hospital, one with minor burns, seven suffering from smoke inhalation.
Around 90 residents, who said they were awakened by screams and screams, were evacuated to a rest center set up at St Nicholas Of Tolentino RC Church at Lawfords Gate, where Bristol City Council provided social assistance to about 40 people.
Avon and Somerset Police Superintendent Tony Blatchford said a full investigation would be launched into the incident. “This is a tragic incident in which a man lost his life,” said Inspector Blatchford.
“Although no official identification has yet been made, we believe we know who the man is and have informed his relatives. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
“An investigation into what happened has begun and we will be working closely with the fire service to fully understand what started the fire and how the man sadly died.
“I would like to thank those who have been evacuated from their homes for their cooperation and understanding and promise that all agencies are working hard to enable them to return to their homes as quickly as possible.”
A Bristol City Council spokesman said affected residents were being supported and would receive assistance for emergency accommodation.
Yassin Mohamud, a green councilor from Lawrence Hill, said he was “heartbroken” by what happened.
“As a board member, community member and parent, I am saddened by what happened at Twinnell House this morning,” said Cllr Mohamud. “It is very sad to hear that one of the citizens has lost his life in such tragic circumstances.”
Willis Drive is closed while emergency services remain on site, and security around the building is expected to remain in place until it is deemed safe.
The Avon Fire and Rescue Service sent 11 fire trucks to the scene, along with two turntable ladders and other special vehicles.
Dave Hodges, commander of the Avon Fire and Rescue Services task force, said: “On arrival, the crew was confronted with a serious fire on the 16th floor and crew on breathing apparatus were deployed to extinguish the fire and assist residents.
“Upstairs have been damaged by smoke and fire, and water damage has affected many floors downstairs.
“The fire has been extinguished and firefighters remain at the scene to secure the location. We are working with our partner agencies to support local communities during this difficult time.
“Our sincere condolences to the friends and family of the deceased.”
Southwest Ambulance Service dispatched seven double manned ambulances, rapid response vehicles, operations personnel, doctors and a Hazardous Area Response Team to the incident.
