Five dead in Barkat Market bakery fire

LAHORE: At least five people were killed after a fire erupted in a bakery in Barkat Market on Tuesday morning.

The rescue officials told media that the five people choked to death after inhaling smoke, adding that bodies have been shifted to Jinnah Hospital.

According to details, the bakery was located in an eight-storey building because of which fire spread to the offices at ground and first floors.

The police said that the deceased were trapped in their offices and could not find way out. “There were no fire alarms or emergency exits in the building,” the police added.

Four of the five deceased have been identified as  15-year-old Shakeel, 25-year-old Shahbaz, 40-year-old Shahid, 30-year-old Talib.

The police arrested the plaza owner Aleem Khan.

Furthermore, Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the incident and summoned the report of the incident. The chief minister has also expressed his grief over the loss of five lives.

The fire has been brought under control by the fire department and rescue officials. The cause of the fire is still unknown, rescue sources added.

On January 8, fire engulfed a five-storey departmental store on MM Alam Road of Lahore, rescue official stated, adding that 10 to 15 fire trucks were used to control the fire.