A late-night fire at a nursing home in northern China has claimed the lives of at least 20 people and left nearly 20 others injured.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Chengde, a city located about 180 kilometers northeast of Beijing, in Hebei province.
The fire reportedly began around 9pm local time and was brought under control by early Wednesday morning. Emergency services rushed to the scene and confirmed the death toll had reached 20 by 3am. Nineteen other residents were taken to a nearby hospital, where they remain under observation.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. A person responsible for the facility has been taken in by police for questioning, though details about their identity or role have not been shared. Provincial officials have sent expert teams to the site to assist with recovery efforts and offer support to the victims’ families.
Tragic fires such as this are not uncommon in China. Despite government efforts to improve safety standards, older buildings and poorly maintained facilities often remain vulnerable to fire risks. Over 900 deaths related to fires were recorded in the first half of 2024 alone, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.
This latest incident adds to a string of fatal fires in recent years. Just months ago, a fire at a food market in another city in Hebei province killed eight people. Last year, a blaze at a residential building in Jiangxi province claimed 39 lives, prompting national attention and calls for stricter safety enforcement.
Officials have promised a thorough investigation into the nursing home fire and said work is being done to support the families of the victims. Local media reports indicate that the facility involved is under review, and further updates are expected as more details emerge.