Sanson is at the juncture of SH1 and SH3, between Palmerston North and Whanganui. Photo: Google Maps/Screenshot
Police authorities have confirmed that a tragic incident has occurred at a house fire in Sanson on Saturday afternoon, resulting in several fatalities.
Reports suggest that three children are unaccounted for following the fire, with a man and a child among the deceased.
Emergency services responded to the scene southwest of the town around 2.30pm.
Fire and Emergency NZ have now handed over control to the police, who will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire, as stated by Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham.
Police have clarified that they are not looking for any additional individuals in connection to the fire.
State Highway 1 is anticipated to reopen by 8pm on Saturday.
A police presence will be maintained overnight, with officers scheduled to return on Sunday morning.
The residence was engulfed in flames, leading to the closure of the highway between Phillips St and Speedy Rd.
Fire and Emergency have confirmed that the fire has been extinguished.
