Around 1:30 a.m., a fire broke out in a grocery kiosk within a two-story building. The fire spread rapidly due to the large quantity of goods inside, accompanied by several explosions. Local residents who witnessed the incident immediately alerted the fire department.

Firefighters tackle the blaze. Photo: Cho Ra

The Thai Nguyen Fire and Rescue Police dispatched the Bac Kan Fire and Rescue Team, two specialized vehicles, and 11 firefighters to the scene. Upon arrival, the fire had engulfed the entire building, which was located near a gas station. The firefighters prioritized containing the fire and preventing its spread. The fire was completely extinguished by 3:54 a.m.

The burned building, which spans hundreds of square meters, housed a kiosk on the first floor and the office of Ba Be Investment Trading and Service Joint Stock Company on the second floor. This area was once one of the busiest commercial hubs in Cho Ra.

According to Cho Ra commune authorities, Bui Trung Hung, 63, the company director, was present at the scene when the fire started. He went to the second floor and died from smoke inhalation.

The scene of the fire. Photo: Cho Ra

Initial estimated damages exceed 2.5 billion VND. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Viet An