The death toll from the collapse of a private school's roof in the city of Peshawar, in northwestern Pakistan, has risen to 35 — 34 children and a teacher — with more than 50 others injured, according to figures released by medical authorities today.

Muhammad Asim, spokesperson for Lady Reading Hospital, said the hospital had received the bodies of 33 victims, including 32 children and a teacher. The deputy medical director of Naseerullah Babar Hospital confirmed that the bodies of two more children had been brought there, adding that none of the children killed was older than 14.

Peshawar police chief Dr. Mian Saeed announced that the school's owner had been arrested and an investigation opened, pointing to structural defects in the building in the Dir Colony neighbourhood. Rescue teams, joined by the Pakistani army, are continuing to search the rubble for anyone who may be trapped.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered a comprehensive investigation and accountability for those responsible, as well as medical care for the injured and support for the victims' families.