An explosion occurred in a fireworks store in Donggan, eastern China, killing eight individuals and injuring two others. The incident took place around 2:30 PM local time on Sunday when a resident mishandled fireworks, which triggered the explosion at a nearby shop, according to local authorities. Emergency services, including firefighters and police, responded swiftly to the scene and extinguished the fire shortly after it erupted.

Following the explosion, an investigation has been launched to determine the cause, and officials from the fireworks company have been detained for questioning. Fireworks are commonly used in rural areas of China, especially during significant festivals like the upcoming Lunar New Year, although their use is strictly regulated in larger cities. This tragic event underscores the risks associated with improper handling of fireworks and raises concerns about safety regulations in rural regions where such practices are more prevalent.

The timing of the explosion is particularly alarming as it coincides with the imminent Lunar New Year celebrations, a period when many people traditionally set off fireworks to mark the occasion. The local government's response and investigatory measures will likely influence future policies regarding fireworks safety, especially in light of the cultural significance of fireworks during celebratory events in China.