Gas explosion kills at least four at Taiwan department store
- The explosion occurred on February 12, 2025, at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung.
- At least four people died, and 24 others were injured, with one victim in critical condition.
- Authorities have initiated an investigation into the suspected gas explosion and are evaluating safety protocols.
On Thursday, February 12, 2025, a tragic explosion occurred at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, Taiwan. This event resulted in the death of at least four people and injuries to 24 others, according to the local fire department. The explosion took place on the 12th floor of the building during construction work, with damage noted from the 9th floor upward. Emergency responders, including dozens of firefighters, immediately arrived at the scene to assist. The incident was particularly severe, leading to scattered debris inside and outside the building, affecting the structure’s exterior. Taiwanese authorities were quick to attribute the blast to a suspected gas explosion, however, the precise cause was yet to be confirmed. The food court located on the 12th floor was reportedly closed for construction at the time, which may have influenced the number of casualties among the general public. One of the injured victims was in critical condition, further elevating the urgency of the situation. Eyewitness accounts indicated that nearby buildings experienced the shockwave from the explosion, highlighting the blast's significant impact. The Taiwanese government, led by President Lai Ching-te, promptly announced that investigations would be initiated to determine the cause of the explosion. This incident has raised concerns regarding construction safety and regulatory compliance within commercial buildings in Taiwan. Local officials, including Taichung Deputy Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin, were present at the scene and expressed condolences to the victims' families while emphasizing the need for thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the explosion. In the aftermath, a family from Macau was identified among the deceased, raising further scrutiny on safety measures as tourists are often present in major shopping centers like Shin Kong Mitsukoshi. The tragic events have sparked public outcry and demands for accountability from corporate and governmental agencies regarding disaster preparedness and emergency response protocols in busy urban areas. The situation remains under close watch as updates on the investigation and recovery efforts are disseminated to the public.