Death toll rises to 26 in North China coal mine company building fire

TAIYUAN -- Death toll has risen to 26 after a fire broke out Thursday morning at a building of a coal mine company in North China's Shanxi province, according to rescuers.

The fire ripped through the second floor of the five-story building located in Lishi district of Lyuliang city. Rescue efforts are underway, according to local authorities.

More than 60 people have been sent to a local hospital for treatment.

The building belongs to the private Yongju coal mine company.