A fire in a building in downtown Osaka, Japan, is thought to have killed at least 27 people.
According to national broadcaster NHK, police are investigating the possibility that the fire was deliberately ignited.
The victims had “cardiopulmonary arrest,” according to local media, a term that is frequently used in preliminary reports before death is formally confirmed.
After dozens of firefighters put out the blaze on the fourth story, footage showed scorched windows.
The fire was discovered on Friday morning and was effectively doused 30 minutes later after burning for about 20 square meters (215 square feet), according to the local fire service.
The structure is situated in Osaka’s bustling commercial and entertainment sector.
