China: At least 10 killed as fire breaks out at hotel in Nanchang
While several have been injured, scores of people are still believed to be trapped inside the building.
At least 10 people were killed in a major fire that broke out at a multi-storey hotel in China’s Nanchang city on Saturday, reported Reuters. Several people have been injured, and many are still believed to be trapped inside the building.
Firefighters recovered seven bodies from the debris, while three people succumbed to their injuries later. At least 16 people were taken to a hospital while an unspecified number of people are still stuck inside the building. Some more people are also trapped in a 24-storey apartment building that is connected to the hotel, according to state-run news agency Xinhua.
The fire broke out on the second floor of the HNA Platinum Mix Hotel around 8 am. About 10 fire tenders were pressed into service and the blaze was doused by 9.40 am [local time].
Initial investigation suggested that the cause of the fire was tools used for renovation work at the building. Seven people have been detained in connection with the incident, reported Xinhua.
Earlier this month, at least 18 people were killed and as many injured in a similar blaze in China’s Zhejiang Province. The fire broke out at a foot massage parlour on February 5.