Early Friday morning, a devastating fire ripped through an apartment complex in central Hanoi, killing 14 people and injuring three others. The blaze, which broke out in the densely populated Cau Giay district, caused widespread panic as smoke and toxic gases filled the air, leaving residents and neighbors in shock and fear.

Tragedy struck central Hanoi early Friday morning as a fire tore through an apartment complex, claiming the lives of 14 individuals and leaving three others injured, according to police reports.

The blaze, which erupted around 12:30 am local time in the densely populated Cau Giay district, sent plumes of smoke and toxic gases billowing from the building. Rescuers sprang into action, forcing their way inside to save seven individuals trapped within.

Witnesses recounted hearing explosions resembling firecrackers and desperate screams emanating from the inferno. Hanoi police reported significant destruction, with numerous motorbikes, electric bicycles, and bicycles in the yard area consumed by the flames.

Despite the valiant efforts of emergency responders, the fire claimed the lives of 14 people before being fully extinguished by 1:26 am. Meanwhile, three survivors are currently undergoing emergency treatment at local hospitals.

The apartment complex, consisting of interconnected two and three-story blocks, housed multiple rental units and a courtyard reportedly utilized for selling and repairing electric bicycles.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as flames engulfed the structure, forcing residents to flee for their lives. One neighbor, speaking anonymously, recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing the blaze and the frantic efforts to escape its grasp.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, adding to a string of deadly incidents that have plagued Vietnam in recent years. Last September, 56 individuals, including three children, perished in a similar apartment block fire in Hanoi, marking the country's deadliest fire in two decades.

Vietnam has witnessed a series of devastating fires, often occurring at entertainment venues. In response, authorities have intensified efforts to enhance fire safety measures, including inspections of high-risk locations and the installation of fire prevention equipment across urban areas.

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