At least 22 people were killed and three others injured on Tuesday after a fire broke out at a restaurant in the northeastern Chinese city of Liaoyang, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

The fire reportedly erupted at 12:25 p.m. local time at a restaurant located near Sanliguang neighborhood in Baita District, Liaoyang, in Liaoning Province. Authorities confirmed that the blaze resulted in 22 fatalities and three injuries, according to a preliminary toll.

Footage broadcast by Chinese media showed intense flames engulfing the restaurant, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a “major loss of life” and a “very painful lesson,” according to the official Xinhua News Agency. He also called for a swift investigation to determine the cause of the fire and to hold those responsible accountable under the law.