Italian authorities say at least 5 killed in fire at Chinese-run garment factory in Tuscany

MILAN – Authorities say a fire in a Chinese-run garment factory in Tuscany has left at least five people dead.

Firefighters said in a statement that the fire broke out early Sunday in a part of the factory used as an illegal dormitory and was brought under control by midday.

The cause was not yet known. Four others were hospitalized.

An ex-military police officer passing by said he notified authorities of the fire.

Leonardo Tuci told the Italian news agency ANSA that he saw smoke coming from the factory and one man trying to put out the flames with a fire extinguisher.

The Tuscan city of Prato has become a center for Chinese-run factories producing garments for international retailers.