Gas Explosion at Taichung Mall Kills At Least Five

A suspected gas explosion at the Taichung Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taiwan has resulted in at least five fatalities and over 20 injuries. The explosion occurred on the 12th floor, which was under construction, leading to significant structural damage and debris falling onto the streets below. Dramatic footage captured the aftermath, showing emergency responders navigating through rubble and evacuating around 235 people from the area. Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen confirmed the blast's impact was felt nearby and noted that rescue operations were the initial priority, with investigations into the cause already underway. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te called for a prompt investigation and stated that multiple government agencies have been mobilized to assist with the situation. Reports indicate that among the deceased are tourists from Macau, highlighting the incident's tragic impact on visitors.