CHANGSHA — A coal mine accident that happened on Sunday in central China's Hunan Province has killed 18 people, local authorities said Monday morning.

A gas leaking occurred at the Jilinqiao colliery in Huangfengqiao Township, Youxian County, around 11 a.m. Sunday, when a total of 55 workers were working in the mining shaft.

Rescuers have brought 37 miners to safety and sent them for hospital treatment.

Investigators are still testing substances in the poisonous gas. Police have detained those responsible for accident pending investigation.