An explosion at a fireworks shop in eastern China has killed eight people and injured two, authorities said, quoted by Agence France-Presse.
Outside major cities, where the use of pyrotechnics is strictly regulated, residents of the country regularly use fireworks during important events and holidays such as the Lunar New Year, which will be celebrated tomorrow.
"Improper use" of fireworks by one or more people caused an explosion at a shop in Jiangsu province, authorities said in a statement posted on social media.
The fire caused by the explosion was extinguished at around 4:00 p.m. local time, the same statement said, adding that eight people died and two others were slightly injured.
Authorities have launched an investigation and those responsible have been detained, AFP reported.