Around 10 PM on 7/7, a fire broke out in a 50-square-meter apartment in Block A of the Doc Lap residential area in Phu Tho Hoa ward (formerly Tan Phu district). The fire intensified rapidly, trapping many residents inside.

The residential area consists of two five-story blocks, A and B, built decades ago. The affected block has over 110 apartments, each measuring 45 to 60 square meters, located along the 6-meter-wide Hem 80 on Do Doc Long street, nearly 100 meters from the main Doc Lap street. The surrounding area includes several single-story houses, townhouses, and restaurants.

After extinguishing the fire, authorities discovered eight deceased family members: a couple aged 38 and 40, and two children aged 7 and 11. Another family of four adults was also found, their identities yet to be confirmed.

Outside the burned apartment, the door frame was warped and blackened with smoke. Corrugated iron and steel bars had collapsed, and below the entrance, a car and various belongings were charred beyond recognition.

Several motorcycles were reduced to their frames and removed from the building. A car parked inside was also gutted, its windshield and windows shattered. The floor was covered in soot and the remnants of burned furniture.

Black smoke from the burning apartment rose four stories, staining the walls and railings.

Multiple fire trucks and dozens of firefighters arrived at the scene. Firefighters used hoses to extinguish the flames and prevent them from spreading on the ground floor. Simultaneously, other teams ascended to the upper floors to combat the fire from above and vent the smoke.

Police also extended a nearly 20-meter water hose from a fire cabinet on the second floor to help extinguish the blaze.

Many residents evacuated their belongings. Blankets, pillows, mattresses, and other flammable items were scattered along the pathways within the residential area.

Location of the apartment fire. Photo: Hoang Khanh

Reporting team