At least 28 people die in a fire at a shoe factory in eastern China, according to reports from state media. Multiple outlets describe the incident as a large, multi-story factory blaze, with thick black smoke rising above the building. Video footage shown by outlets includes flames coming from the structure and emergency crews working to bring the fire under control. Firefighters are reported to be deploying hoses to tackle the blaze both inside and along the facade of the factory. One report says nearly 200 firefighters are involved, indicating a large-scale response. State media characterizes the deaths as “heavy human losses,” and the death toll is consistently reported as at least 28 across the articles. The reports do not provide further confirmed details about the cause of the fire or whether additional injuries or missing people are being investigated in the accounts provided. Authorities are expected to carry out further assessment as more information emerges.