12 dead in fireworks explosion in Hubei

已複製連結

An explosion occurred on Wednesday at a fireworks shop in Xiangyang, Hubei. Authorities announced that the incident resulted in 12 deaths, including 5 minors.

Online videos show thick smoke billowing from the scene, with repeated explosions.

The fire was mainly concentrated on the first floor, and fireworks were seen shooting out from time to time.
The incident happened at around 2 p.m. on Wednesday, when a fireworks shop in Xiangyang, Hubei exploded. The fire covered an area of about 100 square meters. Firefighters arrived and extinguished the open flames in roughly 40 minutes. 

Xiangyang officials held a press conference on the accident, announcing 12 fatalities, including 5 minors. Apart from the fireworks shop owner, the other 11 victims were customers. Authorities said they have notified the families and are assisting with follow-up arrangements.

This is the second fireworks fatal incident in the country this week. Earlier in the week, 8 people were killed in a similar blast in Jiangsu.