Woman, 71, unaccounted for after fire in Inverness
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Firefighters and police at scene of the early morning blaze
A woman remains unaccounted for after an early morning blaze at her home in Inverness.
Four Scottish Fire and Rescue Service appliances dealt with the fire in Island Bank Road after the alarm was raised at 01:55.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus and using high-powered hoses extinguished the fire.
Police said it was believed that the 71-year-old woman was in her home at the time the fire broke out.
The alarm was raised at 01:55
Det Insp Steven Mackenzie said: "Due to the extensive structural damage, gaining entry to the building is likely to take some time.
"Structural engineers will assess the building and advise when it will be safe to enter.
"Inquiries are continuing with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to establish the full circumstances. I would like to thank local residents for their co-operation while these inquiries are ongoing.
"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved."