Deadly Restaurant Fire in Liaoyang, China Claims 22 Lives, Investigation Underway

The fire broke out at 12:25 PM on April 29, 2025, at the "Sanli Chuniang" restaurant, located near the Three-mile Village Relocation Building in the Baita District of Liaoyang City. The fire department, public security, emergency response, and health departments rushed to the scene to carry out rescue operations, and the open flames were extinguished by 12:43 PM. According to eyewitnesses, the fire occurred during the lunch hour, and the restaurant had at least two tables of customers dining at the time. The strong winds in the area may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, making it difficult for people to escape.

The Liaoyang City Emergency Management Bureau reported that 22 people were killed and three injured in the fire, with the injured individuals' vital signs stable. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and emphasized the need to ensure safety during the upcoming Labor Day holiday. Premier Li Qiang also instructed the relevant authorities to take measures to prevent similar accidents from happening.

The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with the Liaoyang City Emergency Management Bureau fully engaged in investigating the cause and handling the aftermath. The public is eagerly awaiting the results of the investigation, with many expressing concern and hoping for a thorough inquiry into the truth behind the accident. The community is seeking transparency and justice for the families affected, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation to provide closure.

Netizens took to social media to express their shock, grief, and condolences, calling for strengthened fire safety checks, particularly in the food and beverage industry. Many users on Weibo shared their thoughts and concerns, questioning whether any alarms were sounded during the emergency and highlighting the gravity of the situation and the need for constant vigilance regarding safety. Official accounts reported on the fire, including the response from high-level government officials, with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang issuing directives emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and measures to prevent similar incidents.

The outpouring of concern and calls for action on social media reflect the broader societal reaction to the Liaoyang restaurant fire, demonstrating a widespread desire for enhanced safety measures and accountability to prevent future disasters. Many are advocating for a nationwide inspection to ensure fire safety, particularly focusing on the dining sector, to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to provide support and assistance to the families of the victims and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.