A devastating fire broke out on Thursday at the Yongju Coal Industry Joint Building in China’s northern Shanxi province, resulting in at least 25 fatalities and numerous injuries. Shanxi, renowned for its significant coal production, witnessed the tragic incident at the coal company’s office, located in the Yongju district.
The fire, which began at approximately 6:50 am local time, occurred in a building housing offices and dormitories rather than the coal mining area. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. By Thursday afternoon, emergency services had managed to contain the blaze, initiating rescue operations.
Authorities reported that 63 people were successfully evacuated from the site, although it remains unclear whether the casualties were part of this group. Video footage shared on the Weibo social media platform depicted flames and dense black smoke emerging from the building, with onlookers gathered in the parking lot.
Rescue efforts and investigations are ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the situation develops.
