China’s state-run media say 16 people have been confirmed dead after a fire broke out in a commercial building in the inland province of Sichuan.
China Central Television says the fire started in the 14-story building in Zigong City on Wednesday.
Footage shows black smoke engulfing the building.
A video posted on social media shows people calling for help from the rooftop.
The blaze was put out two hours later, but rescue operations continued until early Thursday morning.
Local authorities say a preliminary investigation indicates that the fire may have been caused by ongoing construction work.
In January, a building fire in the inland province of Jiangxi killed at least 39 people.