A powerful explosion rocked a food court in a department store in Taichung, western Taiwan. The blast has tragically claimed the lives of at least four people, with several others injured and in need of hospital care. One individual has been reported to have no vital signs.
Officials from the National Fire Agency reported that around seven people were hurt due to the explosion. In response, they deployed dozens of firefighters and 56 vehicles to the scene. Rescue efforts included the use of a dog and a drone to search for anyone trapped in the debris.
The explosion was caused by a gas leak, as confirmed by authorities. They also mentioned that construction work was happening nearby at the time.
The incident occurred on the 12th floor of the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud boom that sent debris flying onto the streets below.
When the explosion happened, emergency teams arrived quickly. Casualties were assessed around 11:30 a.m. local time, and videos showed considerable structural damage, with shattered glass and debris scattered outside.
Initially, officials reported one fatality, but later updates confirmed more deaths as well as numerous injuries. Taichung’s Mayor, Lu Shiow-yen, felt the shockwave from her nearby office and said the rescue operation was the top priority. She also announced an investigation to ensure there were no further hazards.
Residents described the scene as chaotic. One local, Liao Yu-fu, said he thought a plane had crashed nearby. “There was a strong vibration, and my bed shook,” he recalled. Another witness, who was on the sixth floor, initially believed there was an earthquake due to the intensity of the blast. She noted broken glass on every floor as she made her way down the stairs.
This incident has deeply affected the community, and rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to ensure everyone’s safety.
