Blast at fireworks factory in China's Hunan kills 21, Xi calls for probe, state media say

HONG KONG - A blast at a fireworks factory in China's Hunan province has killed 21 people and injured 61, prompting President Xi Jinping to call for a thorough investigation, state media reported on Tuesday.

The blast in the city of Changsha occurred on Monday around 4:40 p.m., according to reports by CCTV and Xinhua.

Xi also ordered authorities to strengthen risk screening and hazard control in key industries, enhance public safety management and ensure the safety of people's lives and property, according to Xinhua.

(Reporting by Clare Jim; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Himani Sarkar)

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect.

This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 8:40 PM.