A fire broke out around 7 p.m. on 17/10, originating from an apartment located at a corner of building M in the Happy Valley condominium, Tan Hung ward, within the Phu My Hung urban area. Black smoke quickly billowed up five floors above the unit.

The apartment was unoccupied when the fire alarm sounded, prompting hundreds of residents to evacuate via staircases. Moments later, the fire intensified, breaking windows and spreading outside.

Firefighters assisted some elderly residents with mobility issues in evacuating from higher-floor apartments. *Photo: Provided by residents*

Thanh, a resident of the condominium, reported that the fire spread quickly with continuous explosions, rendering initial firefighting efforts unsuccessful. "Black smoke rose, covering the five floors above, which made many people fearful", Thanh said.

Smoke from the fire stained the walls of the five floors above. *Photo: Dinh Van*

Three fire trucks and 16 firefighters quickly arrived at the scene, collaborating with local forces. They managed to extinguish the blaze in approximately 20 minutes.

Fortunately, there were no casualties reported. However, the fire destroyed property inside the apartment, shattered windows, and caused walls to peel. The intense smoke also stained the walls of the five floors directly above the affected unit.

Dinh Van