4-alarm fire damages 3 businesses in Bac Lieu Province

The fire started about a quarter past 2pm and rapidly spread to an adjoining coffee shop and motorbike repair shop, reported local officials.

Fire officials sent four fire engines and dozens of crewmembers to fight the fire, which caused an estimated US$90,000 (VND2 billion) in damage.

There are no reports of injuries.

Within an hour the fire was under control, but police officers stayed on the scene much longer due to traffic congestion on Highway 1 caused by curious onlookers who wanted to get an up-close look at the blaze.

The initial cause was determined due to a short circuit in the electrical wiring. The incident is still under investigation.