At 7.45am today the Waimate Fire Service were called to a fire at the Everest Indian Restaurant in Queen Street, Waimate. Police also attended.
On arrival they found the fire well established but they managed to rescue three children from the veranda at the back of the restaurant. These children suffered smoke inhalation and minor injuries. The Fire Service then entered the building and located the bodies of three people from the premises, including two adults and a child.
Currently investigations are being carried out to determine the cause of the fire. The building is cordoned off and the cordons will remain in place until the area can be made safe and the investigation is finished.
Initial reconstruction indicates that this is a tragic accident.
Police is working through the process to notify next of kin. More details will be made available once these inquiries have been completed.
ENDS