Investigators attribute deadly Henan fire to prayer candle

A fire that killed six people at a foot massage parlor in Henan province last month was caused by an unattended prayer candle, according to the results of an official investigation released on Thursday.

The fire broke out on May 2 at the Lanfeng Foot Massage parlor in Lingbao, Sanmenxia city, with the Henan Provincial Department of Emergency Management saying there were direct economic losses of 8.14 million yuan ($1.2 million).

Investigators tasked by the provincial government found that the fire, which spread rapidly due to nearby combustible material, was triggered by a candle left burning on a prayer altar.

Disciplinary and supervisory authorities have held 14 public officials accountable for negligence and dereliction of duty in relation to the accident, according to the report.

Five people from the massage parlor and its property management company have been subjected to criminal compulsory measures on suspicion of criminal offenses, while authorities will also impose administrative penalties on the two companies for violations of laws and regulations.