St Simon Partick Church Fire: Police appeal over cause of blaze

Police are appealing for information after the fire at St Simon's Catholic Church in Partick last night.

Emergency services were called to the fire on Bridge Street, Glasgow, around 2.50am and the building was extensively damaged.

A number of residents from homes in the street were evacuated, however no one was injured as a result of the fire.

Officers say that as the building remains unsafe, so investigators have not yet been able to get in to find out how the fire started.

Firefighters continued battle the blaze throughout the day.

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Police are asking anyone who might have been in the area to get in touch if they can help.

Chief Inspector Natalie Carr, local area commander said: "This remains a multiagency incident and due to the fact that the building is unsafe, at this time neither Police nor Scottish Fire and Rescue officers have been able to get in to the church to establish how the fire started. Enquiries are very much at an early stage and we cannot speculate at this time as to the cause.

"We are also working with the Archdiocese of Glasgow and Glasgow City Council with regard to the welfare of those who use the church and local residents some of whom will not be able to return to their homes until the building has been made safe. We are aware this fire will be devastating to the local and indeed wider community, and along with our partners we will continue to support our communities.

The fire has been a blow for the community.

St Simon's Partick Church Fire: These 10 pictures show the devastating damage caused as flames engulfed historic Glasgow church

"Additional officers will be in the area and I would encourage the local community to engage with these officers should they require assistance or believe they may have information to assist any of the agencies involved.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the area of Partick Cross and Partick Bridge Street on Wednesday morning, particularly around 2.30am and 3.00am.

"Also, if you happened to be driving in the area, including along Dumbarton Road, at that time and have any dash cam footage, then please get in touch with police.

“Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland through 101, quoting incident number 0417 of Wednesday, 28 July, 2021. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

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