Death Toll from Fireworks Plant Explosion in Hunan Province, China Increases to 37

The explosion at a fireworks plant this week in central China has led to a rise in the death toll to 37, as reported by state media on Friday.

Local authorities confirmed that one individual is still unaccounted for, according to China’s official news outlet Xinhua.

The incident took place on Monday at a fireworks facility in the city of Changsha, located in Hunan province. Officials have stated that investigations are ongoing regarding the cause, and all fireworks manufacturing in the surrounding area has been suspended.
Initial reports indicated that over 60 individuals sustained injuries.

According to state media outlet China Daily, the plant was operated by Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co. in the county-level city of Liuyang, which is well-known for its fireworks industry.

Liuyang boasts a rich history of fireworks production. The Guinness World Records credits the first documented firework, the Chinese firecracker, to Li Tian, a monk residing near Liuyang during the Tang dynasty, around 618 to 907 C.E.

Earlier this year, in February, China reported two fatal explosions at fireworks shops leading up to the Lunar New Year festivities.