The scene of the fire. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Three firefighters from Cầu Giấy District died while tackling a blaze at 231 Quan Hoa Street at about 2 pm on Monday, police in Hà Nội announced.

The fatalities have been named as Đặng Anh Quân, head of the Fire Prevention and Control Team, Đỗ Đức Việt and Nguyễn Đình Phúc.

Their bodies have been taken to Hospital 198 under the Ministry of Public Security.

The three firefighters were reportedly trapped inside the burning building after a staircase collapsed.

Five firetrucks and 20 firefighters attended the scene to tackle the blaze. — VNA/VNS Photo

Deputy Public Security Minister Nguyễn Văn Long was sent to the scene by the Minister of Public Security to direct the firefighting and search and rescue efforts.

Upon hearing the news of their passing, President Nguyễn Xuân Phúc sent his deepest condolences to the people's police force and the families of the three firefighters.

The fire started on the top floor of the six-storey building, which used to be a karaoke bar before closing for repairs. Only electricians have been working there recently.

The investigation into the case is ongoing. — VNS

The site of the incident at 7 pm. — VNA/VNS Photo