Live updates as man dies and eight in hospital after Bristol tower block fire

A man has died and eight people are in hospital after a fire ripped through a Bristol tower block early today. Emergency services were called just after 2.15am today (September 25) to a fire on the top floor of Twinnell House at Wills Drive, Easton.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service sent eleven fire engines to the scene along with two turntable ladders and other specialist vehicles. Seven double-crewed ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, an operations officer, a doctor and the Hazardous Area Response Team were also at the scene.

One man died in the fire, which happened on the 16th floor. Eight people are currently in hospital – seven for treatment for smoke inhalation and another for minor burns – while three others were treated by the ambulance service at the scene.

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A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: “The fire was quickly extinguished however sadly, we can confirm one person died in the incident. Around 90 residents have been evacuated and a rest centre set up at St. Nicholas Of Tolentino RC Church, Lawfords Gate, where Bristol City Council is currently providing welfare support to around 40 people."

A cordon has been put up around the building. The cordon is expected to remain in place until the building has been assessed and deemed safe. The fire has caused serious damage to the upper floors of the tower block. Water has caused damage to other floors.

Avon and Somerset Police Superintendent Tony Blatchford said: “This is a tragic incident in which a man has lost his life.

“While formal identification has not yet been carried out, we believe we know who the man is and have informed his next of kin. Our thoughts are with them at