Person in custody after fire at Tasmanian hospital

Emergency services are investigating a fire at a hospital in north-west Tasmania. The blaze was confined to the North West Regional Hospital’s inpatient mental health unit, with the Spencer Clinic being the primary area affected. One person is currently in custody, assisting police with their inquiries. Tasmania Police is leading the investigation into the incident that occurred at approximately 6:30pm on Saturday.

Upon receiving reports of the fire in the inpatient mental health unit of the North West Regional Hospital in Burnie, emergency crews were dispatched. All patients within this unit, as well as those in the neighbouring paediatric unit, were promptly evacuated for their safety.

The Department of Health Secretary, Dale Webster, confirmed that the evacuation ensured the safety of all patients. The fire primarily affected the Spencer Clinic, though other adjacent areas will require further assessment once the fire service has completed their work. Patients have been safely relocated to alternative facilities to ensure continuity of care and treatment. Some patients have been transferred to other hospitals as necessary.

Webster affirmed that all patients have been accounted for and are confirmed to be safe, with no reported injuries resulting from the fire.