Three people, including two women were killed and at least 15 others sustained injuries in a firecracker explosion in Vizianagaram district this evening, that also led to collapse of three thatched houses, police said.
The incident occurred between 5 pm and 5.30 pm, when firecrackers stored in a house in Paradi village of Bobbili mandal accidentally exploded when they were being transported, resulting in instant death of two and 16 others suffered injuries, they said, adding that another injured woman succumbed to her injuries later.
Preliminary information has revealed that firecrackers were illegally manufactured there and the mishap also resulted in collapse of three hatched houses, a senior police officer told PTI.
Two of the deceased have been identified as B Eswaramma (20) and N Chinna (30), the police officer said, adding that the injured have been rushed to Bobbili government hospital.
Further investigations are underway.