Guangdong, China—Four people were killed Thursday in a residential fire sparked by an exploding electric bike battery. The blaze broke out in a high-density apartment complex during the early morning hours. Emergency responders were called to the scene after residents reported hearing a loud pop followed by thick, black smoke pouring from a unit on the fifth floor.

The fire spread with alarming speed, fueled by the volatile components within the lithium-ion battery. Witnesses described a flash of intense heat that engulfed the hallway before occupants could reach the stairwell. By the time firefighters arrived, the interior of the apartment was fully consumed, and the structure of the hallway was compromised by smoke.

Fire crews worked to evacuate the surrounding units as they battled the flames. They successfully reached several residents trapped on upper floors, but the four victims in the primary unit were found unresponsive. Paramedics confirmed their deaths shortly after the fire was brought under control.

This incident adds to a growing list of safety concerns regarding the storage and charging of electric bike batteries in living spaces. Local authorities have repeatedly warned that bringing these units indoors creates an extreme fire risk. The building’s management is now under investigation to determine if proper storage protocols were enforced.

The fire caused extensive damage to the hallway and adjoining units, leaving many families displaced. The municipal government has since announced a temporary shelter program for those affected. Structural engineers are currently evaluating the integrity of the building’s framing, which suffered significant heat damage.

The investigation into the specific brand and condition of the battery is ongoing. Investigators believe the unit may have been undergoing an unauthorized modification, a factor often linked to these sudden thermal runaway events. Forensic teams are scouring the ruins for the remains of the charging hardware.

Guangdong officials have called for an immediate city-wide inspection of all high-rise residential buildings. They intend to target illegal indoor charging stations and substandard battery equipment. The city remains on high alert for further fire risks as summer heat complicates electrical safety.

The tragedy has left the local community in mourning. Neighbors gathered outside the building throughout the afternoon to place flowers and pay their respects. Recovery of the site will likely take several days as investigators finish their work.