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Glasgow Evening Gazette

April 12th, 2005

Last night there was a shocking incident that occurred in Flight Street, in the top floor flat of what is private housing but predominantly used by students for accommodation during term time.

The fire, which authorities have revealed, took the lives of five students at the local University. Names have not yet been released to the press, but Strathclyde Police have advised that there were four males and one female. Next of kin are still in the process of being notified. We are hopeful that once this has occurred, we can name and offer a memorial to those who tragically lost their lives in what police believe was a party which got out of control.

Drug paraphernalia and alcohol was discovered at the scene of the flat where the fire originated. In fact, police have advised that this could have been an accelerant in the fire being as fast and deadly as it was.

There is also said to be significant damage to not only that flat but also the flats below and adjacent.

This is clearly an extremely devastating ordeal for neighbours who had to be evacuated in the early hours of the morning. One that perhaps could have been prevented since so far, firefighters and the police believe it was irresponsibility and recklessness of the youths involved.

University officials have stated how shocked and upset they are by the incident but when asked for comments in relation to providing tutorage over the dangers of excessive drinking and taking drugs, they denied commenting.

We are following the story closely and will be reporting details as we are updated.