Deadly fire breaks out in Osaka's Dotonbori district, killing two firefighters

A major fire erupted in Osaka's bustling Dotonbori district on Monday morning, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and leaving multiple people injured, including two firefighters who tragically lost their lives.

The blaze broke out around 9am on the first floor of a seven-story building, prompting a massive emergency response. 

Osaka fire officials deployed 33 fire trucks and a helicopter to battle the flames. 

According to police, three other firefighters were injured, along with one civilian who suffered smoke inhalation.

Videos circulating online show flames and heavy smoke near the popular Don Quijote store in Dotonbori, a major tourist and entertainment hub. 

Witnesses reported that the fire originated in a nearby yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) restaurant.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, and firefighters continue to work at the scene.