Fourteen young workers were killed and one was severely injured in a fire at an underwear workshop in Shantou, Guangdong Province around 3:30 pm Tuesday, said local authorities.

All 14 victims are female employees between the ages of 18 and 20. The injured worker is undergoing treatment at hospital.

The fire was extinguished around 4 pm. After initial investigations, police confirmed arson was the cause. Local police said a former employee set the workshop on fire. Some people said the arsonist was enraged over a payment dispute.

The arson suspect was detained late Tuesday, local police said.

Senior officials also ordered an inquiry into the incident in order to prevent future cases.

Global Times - Agencies