A massive fire engulfed a private nursing home for senior citizens in central China, killing at least 38 residents who were charred beyond recognition and raising fresh concerns over safety in such facilities.
The inferno at the privately-owned Kangleyuan Rest Home in lushan County, Pingdingshan City started last evening, according to a statement issued by the Henan Province publicity office on Tuesday.
The six injured, two of whom are in serious condition, have been hospitalised, state-run Xinhua news agency reported. The blaze swept through the complex, which is home to 51 senior citizens, before being put out after nearly an hour.
Buildings were gutted and collapsed while frames of destroyed beds and wheelchairs scattered around at the site, which has been cordoned off, Xinhua reported. The search and rescue operation involving hundreds of rescuers ended this morning, said the statement.