- Explosion at Taichung department store leaves one dead, multiple injured.
- Authorities deploy massive rescue operation as cause remains unknown.
- Mayor warns of widespread impact, urges public to avoid the area.
A powerful explosion rocked the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, leaving one person dead and four others “without vital signs,” according to authorities.
The blast occurred in the food court on the 12th floor of the shopping complex, located about 160km southwest of Taipei.
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The National Fire Agency confirmed that seven others sustained injuries. Emergency responders deployed 56 vehicles and 136 personnel to conduct search and rescue operations, noting that the affected area was undergoing construction at the time.
Footage from TVBS Taiwan captured the explosion, showing debris and dust bursting from the building. Images from the scene depicted shattered fragments scattered across the streets.
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, who felt the tremors from a nearby government building, described the incident as “very serious,” emphasizing that rescue efforts were ongoing.
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Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the explosion. The National Fire Agency urged the public to steer clear of the area while investigations continue.
Mayor Lu warned that the blast impacted a significant portion of the neighbourhood, including office buildings and residences, and called for public cooperation with safety measures.
