An explosion at an allegedly illegal fireworks workshop in southern Guangxi Zhuang, China has claimed three lives and critically injured 13 others. The incident occurred on Saturday while workers were rushing to keep up with the increasing demand for fireworks in preparation for the upcoming holiday season.

The fatalities included the mother of the shop owner, while those injured were all local villagers employed in the factory.

Seven of the 13 people who sustained injuries are still in serious conditions and notices were already sent to their families.

State-run media reported the shop was located near a school and was even found to be secretly hiring students looking for part time jobs.