Fire at a shopping center in Iran kills 8 people and injures dozens

A fire at the Arghavan commercial complex in Andisheh, near Tehran, has killed at least 11 people and injured 41, according to the latest reporting.

The blaze broke out on Tuesday, May 5. Initial reports from the Associated Press said eight people were killed and 40 were injured. Later Iranian and wire reporting raised the toll to at least 11 dead and 41 injured.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and possible building-safety failures. Reporting cited in the research says officials are examining whether the building’s facade materials helped the flames spread.

Iranian media also reported that authorities arrested the building’s owner as part of the investigation.

The death toll may still change as investigators continue to assess the scene and account for the victims. For now, the fire stands as a deadly reminder of the risks posed by commercial-building safety lapses.