13 killed in fireworks blast in southern China as country’s biggest holiday nears its end

13 killed in fireworks blast in southern China

BEIJING — Thirteen people have been killed in a fireworks explosion in southern China, and more than 30 have been injured.

A police official in Puning city in the southern province of Guangdong confirmed Friday evening’s explosion and deaths and said police are investigating.

China is celebrating the Lunar New Year, which is its biggest holiday, and fireworks are a large part of the celebrations. The holiday ends Sunday.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency says the explosion occurred when villagers were setting off fireworks in front of a house.

China’s public security ministry says fireworks-related accidents killed 11 people throughout the country during the first week of the 15-day holiday.