Tragic Fire Claims 16 Lives in Sichuan Mall

A devastating fire broke out at a shopping mall in southwest China's Sichuan Province, killing at least 16 people.

The incident occurred around 6 PM on Wednesday at a 14-story building located in the high-tech zone of Zigong, Sichuan province, according to Chinese state media reports. Images and videos showed dramatic scenes of a huge column of black smoke rising from the building, with several people gathered on a balcony.

The rescue operation concluded on Thursday, and approximately 75 individuals who were trapped inside were evacuated, the local fire department stated. Although the rest of the individuals were rescued, the tragic loss of 16 lives was confirmed by the state-run Xinhua news agency.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was caused by ongoing construction work. China's Ministry of Emergency Management and National Fire and Rescue Administration dispatched a working team to investigate, and fire experts from across the country will also participate in the inquiry, the Ministry reported.

(With inputs from agencies.)