8 died in fire at birthday party in Shahriar

Eight people died in a blast at a birthday party in a city near the Iranian capital of Tehran on Tuesday, the official news agency IRNA reported.

The incident took place at a traditional cafe in Maryam Town of Shahriar city.

IRNA reported Shahin Fathi, Managing Director of the non-profit organisation Red Crescent Society of Tehran Province, as saying.

Preliminary investigations showed that a balloon containing helium gas exploded and ignited, eventually leading to a fire spreading across the café.

The victims, including four children, three women and a man, died due to suffocation, said the report.Preliminary investigations showed that a balloon containing helium gas exploded and ignited, eventually leading to a fire spreading across the café.