A devastating gas explosion rocked a bustling department store in Taiwan region's Taichung City on Thursday, killing four people and injuring 26 others. The blast occurred during construction work in the building's food court area at 11:40 a.m., sending shockwaves through the city center.
Eyewitness videos show thick smoke pouring from the structure, with debris flung onto nearby streets as shoppers fled. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, evacuating hundreds and treating the wounded on-site.
'This was supposed to be a routine renovation," one shaken survivor told local media. "Suddenly there was this huge boom—we thought the ceiling would collapse."
Authorities confirmed the explosion originated from a gas line but stressed the exact cause remains under investigation. The department store will remain closed indefinitely while engineers assess structural damage.
Our hearts go out to those affected by this tragedy. Stay tuned for updates as recovery efforts continue. #TaichungStrong
NewspaperAmigo – Your Global News Buddy 
Eyewitness videos show thick smoke pouring from the structure, with debris flung onto nearby streets as shoppers fled. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, evacuating hundreds and treating the wounded on-site.
'This was supposed to be a routine renovation," one shaken survivor told local media. "Suddenly there was this huge boom—we thought the ceiling would collapse."
#TaichungStrong
