17 killed in video game parlor fire in north China
( 2002-02-19 09:15 ) (8 )

At least 17 people were killed in a fire in an illegal video game parlour in Tanghshan City in northern China's Hebei province Monday afternoon.

Seven people were found dead at the scene and 10 others died later in hospital.

Most of them were youngsters.

The video game parlor is illegally run by a local retiree, Ling Fu, who has gone into hiding.

The doors and windows of the game parlour had been blocked off, with only a secret entrance left open.

Police said the fire, which started at 2:25 pm (0625 GMT), was believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, but that they were continuing to investigate the case.

Three who have are suspected to be involved have been brought into custody for interrogation by the police.