One person dead in Rotorua fire

One teenager is dead and a number of people have been injured following a fire in Rotorua.

Police were called at approximately 11.15pm to reports of disorder at an industrial building on Riri Street. On arrival they found a party was being held at the building and there were in excess of 100 people present. The party had spilled out onto the road and it was clear that fighting had recently occurred.

A decision was made by police to close down the party. Police shepherded people away from the area and a number of arrests were made for disorderly behaviour. Five male teenagers were treated at Rotorua Hospital for minor injuries sustained during the disorder.

Police carried out a number of patrols in the area following the party closure and the area remained quiet.

At approximately 2.40am police received reports of a fire at the same building.

A small number of the people were at the building. Fire located one person deceased in the building, believed to be that of a local female. Six other teenagers were taken to Rotorua Hospital; four suffering smoke inhalation and two suffering burns. One of the group, a 17-year-old male, has been transferred to Waikato Hospital with burns to his face, chest and arms.

A scene examination is currently underway to establish the cause of the fire and whether or not it is suspicious. Police are making a number of other enquiries and liaising with families.

From enquiries police believe they know the identity of the deceased and are liaising with her family with the assistance of Victim Support.

No further details of the girl will be released until police are able to confirm the identity and all family members have been informed.

Police want to hear from anyone who was at the building Saturday night or early hours of Sunday morning who may have information that might assist the investigation.

Anyone with information about this fire is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.