Around 12h, a fire erupted at a river prawn hotpot restaurant in Bo De ward. The restaurant was undergoing renovations at the time and had no customers; workers inside managed to escape.

Witnesses stated the fire started from welding sparks, spreading to foam insulation, producing thick smoke and a burning smell. During the blaze, several explosions were heard, suspected to be from mini and large gas cylinders, forcing nearby residents to move away from the scene.

Before authorities arrived, many people used fire extinguishers and water to put out the flames. Fire police then deployed at least 4 fire trucks and one water tanker to the scene. By around 13h, the fire was brought under control.

The restaurant, spanning over 100 square meters, had recently changed ownership and comprised a courtyard and several enclosed rooms. Many furnishings and part of the roof were destroyed in the fire.

Smoke rising from the hotpot restaurant fire. Photo: Anh Minh

Viet An