Several explosions occurred in a night market in Zhengzhou, Henan Province on the evening of Thursday, April 17th. Witnesses reported hearing multiple explosions, with the shock waves being so strong that metal sheets were blown several meters away.
On the evening of April 17th, several netizens posted videos claiming that a fire broke out in a night market in Zhengzhou, Henan, followed by four or five explosions.
The videos show flames soaring into the sky, thick smoke billowing, and mushroom cloud-like smoke rising with each explosion, causing nearby residents to panic and scatter.
Ms. Sun, who lives near the scene, told reporters, “The explosion occurred in the night market across the residential area, where the rooftop sheds were blown off.”
She described the terrifying moment when the accident happened, saying, “The explosion was frightening, like thunder during a storm. I could see red light through the window caused by the explosions.”
According to Ms. Sun, the area covered with tin sheets was a long-standing night market mainly selling barbecue and crayfish. The fire has been extinguished, leaving the scene dark and charred.
Mr. Ran, a nearby resident, shared, “We were all relaxing nearby when suddenly several explosions startled many. A piece of metal sheet was blown several meters away.”
Another resident told the media outlet, “There was a barbecue shop in the explosion area. I live quite far from there but still could hear the explosions. At first, I thought it was thunder.”
According to the Zhengzhou Fire Department, the explosion occurred at the intersection of Shen Zhuang Road and Fengtai Road at 20:28 on April 17th. A fire broke out in a pile of debris from an abandoned hotel, including tables, chairs, miscellaneous items, and gas cylinders. The fire was extinguished by 20:40. The report stated that no casualties were reported.
Internet users commented, “I was passing by at that time and got scared to death.” “Five minutes before the explosion, I was parked in front making a call, wondering whether to park my car inside.” “I live just a street away from the explosion site. The sound was exceptionally loud and frightening.” “Last night there were five or six explosions, the windows were shaking, and my heart was beating fast. Luckily, I’m lazy; when my colleague asked about dinner, I chose tonight (April 18).”
Some netizens questioned the statement of “no casualties” in the official report, saying, “Did everyone evacuate before the explosion? It’s terrifying to think about.” “If there are no casualties, does that mean the officials can still protect their titles.”
One internet user also mentioned a different location of the fire compared to the fire department report, stating, “Clarification: A fire broke out in a warehouse next to the Tortoise Bar, which stored many gas tanks! The Tortoise Bar is also a victim in this incident!”