Macau Toddler Dies from Taichung Gas Explosion Injuries, Death Toll Reaches 5

A two-year-old girl from Macau has died from injuries sustained in a gas explosion at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, Taiwan, bringing the death toll to five. The explosion occurred on February 13 during renovation work involving the replacement of an LPG cylinder, leading to severe head trauma for the toddler and the deaths of her grandparents at the scene. After receiving initial treatment in Taiwan, she was airlifted to Macau but ultimately succumbed to her injuries on March 7. The Health Bureau of Macau expressed deep sorrow over her passing and provided psychological support to the family. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, focusing on potential manslaughter and negligence, with 33 witnesses already questioned. Each family of the deceased victims is expected to receive compensation of NT$11 million (approximately US$330,000).