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A powerful gas explosion at a department store in Taichung, Taiwan, on Thursday killed four people and left eight others hospitalized, local fire authorities confirmed.

The blast occurred around midday at the food court on the 12th floor of the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store, causing severe structural damage and scattering debris across the surrounding streets.

Among the victims were two tourists from Macau, while a third visitor from the same group was severely injured, according to Macau's Tourism Office. Local reports indicate that the tourists were part of a family of seven visiting Taiwan.

The explosion led to a massive emergency response, with more than 130 firefighters deployed to the scene. Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen stated that she felt the shockwave from her nearby office.

"Our priority is rescue operations, but an investigation is already underway to determine the cause of the blast and identify any further risks," she told reporters.

Dramatic footage shared on social media showed the moment of the explosion, with a loud bang followed by shattered window panels crashing onto the streets below. Smoke billowed from the 12th floor as bystanders captured images of the destruction.

Some clips revealed parts of the building's exterior blown out, while others showed victims lying on the ground as emergency responders arrived.

Inside the building, firefighters discovered that the explosion had nearly reduced the entire floor to rubble. Video from the Taichung Fire Department displayed twisted metal and broken structures hanging from the ceiling, with emergency workers navigating through the debris with flashlights.

Rescue Efforts and Government Response

Taiwan's National Fire Agency reported that at least 235 people were safely evacuated from the shopping mall. Ambulances and emergency personnel were seen cordoning off the area and transporting victims on stretchers.

President Lai Ching-te announced that government agencies, including the health ministry, had been mobilized to assist the injured and investigate the cause of the explosion. He also urged the public to avoid the area for safety reasons.

This incident recalls previous gas-related disasters in Taiwan. In 2014, underground gas leaks triggered a series of massive explosions in the southern city of Kaohsiung, killing more than two dozen people and injuring hundreds.

The powerful blasts tore through roads, overturned vehicles, and left extensive damage in their wake. Authorities continue to investigate the Taichung explosion as rescue operations remain ongoing.

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Taiwan