Authorities in Hanoi have launched a murder probe following a tragic fire at the “Hat Cho Nhau Nghe” café in Bac Tu Liem District that resulted in 11 fatalities. A suspect, identified as C.V.H., a 50-year-old resident of Dong Anh District, faces charges of arson and murder.

The blaze erupted around 11:03 p.m. on December 18 at the café located on Pham Van Dong Street. Emergency services received reports of individuals trapped inside the establishment. Firefighters and local officials from surrounding areas promptly arrived to battle the flames and rescue those in danger.

By approximately 11:40 p.m., the flames were extinguished, resulting in seven individuals being rescued; five of them were reported to be stable, while two sustained injuries. Unfortunately, 11 people were pronounced dead at the scene.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was intentionally started. The suspect, C.V.H., known for previous robbery and theft charges, was taken into custody around midnight on December 19.

Lieutenant General Nguyen Hai Trung, the director of Hanoi Police, along with high-ranking officials, were at the scene to manage the rescue and investigation efforts. Additionally, Hanoi’s Party Secretary Bui Thi Minh Hoai visited the site to oversee recovery actions and support for the families impacted by the tragedy.

Investigators are currently working to uncover the motive behind the fire and to identify the victims. Local authorities are also extending help to the families affected by this incident, addressing the consequences of this unfortunate event.