Fire at Fujian shoe factory kills 28

A major fire at a shoe factory in southeastern China on Thursday killed at least 28 people, with many others feared trapped, prompting a large-scale emergency response and a direct order from President Xi Jinping for a full investigation. The blaze broke out around noon at the Huiteng Shoes factory in Jiangtou Village, Chendai Town, within the city of Jinjiang in Fujian province.

State media reported a preliminary death toll of 28, citing the official Xinhua News Agency. President Xi described the incident as resulting in "heavy human losses" and "significant casualties." He instructed authorities to spare no effort in search and rescue operations, treat the injured, and provide support to affected families. Xi also demanded the cause be identified quickly and those responsible be held strictly accountable.

The Ministry of Emergency Management stated that 183 firefighters and rescue workers with 35 vehicles were dispatched to the scene. Video footage from state broadcaster CCTV showed a large, multistory white building engulfed in thick black and grey smoke, with flames visible from windows. People could be seen taking refuge on the rooftop and near windows, with reports...