Ports

Twenty-five killed in cargo ship fire at Qingdao repair facility

A massive fire swept through the Liberian-flagged dry bulk carrier Ocean Melody at Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding Co., a state-owned yard in eastern China's major port, killing 25 people Thursday.

The vessel had 42 personnel aboard when the blaze erupted. Twelve crew members evacuated safely while five were hospitalized in stable condition. Recovery teams discovered the remaining 25 fatalities as rescue efforts extended through the afternoon and evening.

The 20-year-old bulk carrier, managed by Yuyangkunpeng Shanghai Ship Management and owned by Huili Shipping Co., arrived at the Qingdao facility August 31 for planned repairs and inspections. Emergency responders, including fire, rescue, police and medical teams, mobilized immediately following reports of the fire.

Authorities launched an investigation into the cause, which remained undetermined as of Thursday evening. The incident occurred at one of China's primary shipbuilding and repair centers.