Explosion at China Fireworks Shop Kills 8 Before Lunar New Year

An explosion at a fireworks shop in eastern China's Jiangsu province killed eight people and injured two others on Sunday afternoon, authorities reported, just days before the Lunar New Year celebrations.

The blast occurred around 2:30 p.m. local time in Dongan village, Donghai county, when a villager improperly set off fireworks near the store, triggering a fire that spread rapidly, according to a statement from local officials. Emergency management, fire, public security, and health teams responded immediately, extinguishing the flames by about 4 p.m. The two survivors sustained minor burns, while the eight fatalities included individuals inside the shop at the time. Investigations are ongoing, and those responsible for the improper discharge have been taken into custody.

The incident took place as China approaches the peak period for fireworks use during the nine-day Lunar New Year holiday, which begins Tuesday and ushers in the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. Setting off firecrackers and fireworks remains a longstanding tradition, particularly at midnight on New Year's Eve, symbolizing the warding off of evil spirits and the welcoming of good fortune. However, many...