At least eight people were killed and two others injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a fireworks store in eastern China’s Jiangsu province on Sunday, local authorities confirmed.
The blast occurred around 2:30pm in Donghai county when fireworks were allegedly set off improperly by one or more villagers near the shop.
According to a statement released by local officials on social media, the discharge triggered a massive explosion inside the store.
Emergency response teams, including fire services, police, medical personnel and disaster management officials, were immediately deployed to the scene to conduct rescue operations and contain the blaze.
Authorities said the fire sparked by the explosion was brought under control by approximately 4pm.
Eight people lost their lives in the incident, while two others suffered minor burn injuries.
Officials added that an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the explosion, and individuals believed to be responsible have been detained.
The tragedy comes as China enters the peak season for fireworks use ahead of the Lunar New Year celebrations, which begin on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Emergency Management has issued fresh safety warnings, urging citizens to avoid risky practices such as smoking or test-firing fireworks near retail outlets.
The ministry also instructed fireworks manufacturers and sellers nationwide to conduct comprehensive safety inspections. Industrial and safety-related accidents remain a recurring concern in China, often attributed to inadequate enforcement of safety standards.
