[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] A gas explosion occurred at a restaurant in the downtown area of Shenyang, the capital of Liaoning Province, China, resulting in more than 30 casualties so far, with significant damage reported to nearby buildings and vehicles.
According to the Hong Kong South China Morning Post (SCMP), a large explosion took place around 8 a.m. on the 21st at a restaurant in the Taiyuan Street area of Heping District, Shenyang. So far, one person has died and 33 have been injured. Buildings and vehicles in the commercial area also suffered extensive damage, with debris scattered everywhere.
A witness said, "After hearing a loud explosion, white smoke rose," adding, "Nearby shops and buildings were severely damaged." Local online media have circulated videos showing the damaged buildings reduced to their frameworks, debris scattered across the streets making the area look like ruins, and pedestrians hastily evacuating after the explosion.
Local fire authorities reportedly dispatched 25 fire trucks and 110 firefighters immediately after the explosion to conduct search and rescue operations. While carrying out rescue efforts, the fire department is also investigating the detailed cause of the explosion. SCMP reported that water and electricity supplies have been cut off in the area near the explosion site.
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