A devastating fire in a restaurant in Liaoning province, China, on Tuesday afternoon resulted in the death of 22 people and injuries to 3 others. Investigations are ongoing.
China: A large fire broke out in a restaurant located in Liaoyang City, Liaoning Province, China, on Tuesday. The restaurant, situated in a residential area, caught fire at approximately 12:25 PM local time. The fire spread rapidly, leaving those inside with little chance of escape.
22 Dead, 3 Injured
According to the state broadcaster CCTV, 22 people have perished in this tragic incident, and 3 others are reported to be seriously injured. The injured are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.
President Xi Jinping Issues Stern Warning
Given the severity of the incident, Chinese President Xi Jinping described it as a "grave lesson" and stated that those responsible for the negligence will face severe consequences. He instructed local authorities to expedite the investigation, ensure proper treatment for the injured, and review safety standards.
Similar Incidents in the Past
This is not the first such incident in China. In March 2023, a gas leak explosion in a Hebei province restaurant killed 2 and injured 26. In September 2023, an explosion in a tall building in Shenzhen resulted in one fatality. These incidents highlight a significant lack of adherence to safety regulations in commercial establishments.
Cause of the Fire
While the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, preliminary investigations suggest a possible gas leak or electrical short circuit. The local fire department and administration are conducting a thorough investigation and collecting evidence from the scene.
