Image Credit: Hindustan Times
A lightning strike in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, led to the collapse of a park pavilion on Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and injuries to 10 others, as confirmed by local authorities early Monday. The tragic incident took place at 8:36 p.m. in Hengshanqiao Township, located within the Changzhou Economic Development Zone, where a group of people had taken shelter from the heavy rain beneath the pavilion.
Rescue teams swiftly responded to the scene, launching an extensive search and rescue operation that continued until late Sunday night. Emergency personnel worked to free those trapped beneath the debris, with all 16 victims being rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, six of the individuals, who had suffered severe injuries, were pronounced dead after attempts to save them failed. The remaining 10 victims are reported to be in stable condition, and receiving ongoing medical treatment.
Local authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the pavilion’s collapse and to assess the overall safety of public structures in the region. This investigation will include a thorough review of the construction and maintenance standards of public facilities, particularly those intended to provide shelter during severe weather events.
The collapse has sparked widespread concern among residents and officials alike, with many questioning the adequacy of safety measures in public spaces. The local government has committed to enforcing stricter safety standards and conducting regular inspections to prevent such incidents in the future.
More information will be provided as the situation develops and further details become available from the ongoing investigation.