Nightclub fire in Spain kills seven as authorities search for missing revellers

At least seven people have died in a nightclub fire in southeast Spain as a desperate search for survivors is underway amid fears the death toll could rise.

Eight revellers who were celebrating a birthday party are still missing, according to local reports, after the blaze broke out in the city of Murcia in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Another four people have been injured after suffering smoke inhalation at the Atalayas nightclub, which is said to be made up of three different venues – Golden, Teatre and Fonda.

Mayor Jose Ballesta confirmed emergency services are still working in the area as he announced the number of deaths had risen to seven. “Strength and encouragement to family and friends in these difficult times,” he wrote on Twitter.

It is feared there could be more victims, as authorities search for people reported as missing who are thought to have been in the nightclub at the time.

Among the missing is thought to be eight people who were all celebrating a birthday party together at Fonda, reported La Verdad.

The Fire and Rescue Service of Murcia 40 firefighters and 12 fire engines were at the scene just after 6am (UK time) tackling the blaze.

Murcia Police confirmed officers are involved in the efforts, adding that an area has been set up in a nearby sports arena, the Palace of Sports of Murcia, for family members and those affected.

More follows…