The deadly explosion that rocked the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung last month was officially determined to have been caused by a gas leak, according to an investigation report released by the Taichung Fire Bureau on Friday. The tragic incident, which claimed five lives and left several others injured, occurred on February 13, 2025, at a construction site on the store’s 12th floor.
Investigation Findings: What Caused the Explosion?
The fire investigation confirmed that a residual gas leak was the primary cause of the explosion. Authorities found key evidence at the scene, including:
- Cigarette butts
- Electrical wires
- A gas pipe
- A circular saw (grinder)
The report indicates that construction work was being carried out at the site when the explosion occurred. Sources revealed that the department store had commissioned Shin Chung Natural Gas Co. to shut off its main gas supply as part of planned layout changes. However, it appears that residual gas remained in the branch pipes, which were not purged before work commenced.
As a result, when a worker used a grinder to cut the pipes, the sparks ignited the accumulated gas, triggering a powerful blast that tore through the building.
Legal and Safety Implications
The Taichung Fire Bureau has handed over the full investigation report to prosecutors, who are now considering legal action against individuals or companies responsible for the explosion. The case is currently being investigated under:
- Negligent homicide
- Negligence resulting in injuries
- Public endangerment
Authorities are looking into whether proper safety procedures were followed during the construction work and whether gas line maintenance protocols were adhered to.
Devastating Impact of the Explosion
The explosion, which took place at 11:00 a.m., sent a powerful shockwave through the building. The 12th-floor windows and exterior walls were blown apart, exposing the heavily damaged interior. Large chunks of debris were ejected from the building and scattered onto the streets below, causing chaos and panic among pedestrians and drivers.
Victims of the Tragedy
Among those affected by the explosion was a family of seven from Macau who were passing by the department store at the time. The grandparents tragically lost their lives at the scene, while a two-year-old girl, who was initially critically injured, succumbed to her injuries on March 7, bringing the total death toll to five. Several others were seriously injured in the explosion.
Government and Public Response
Following the release of the investigation report, safety concerns have been raised regarding construction and gas line maintenance procedures in commercial buildings.
Local authorities and experts have called for stricter safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future, including:
- Stronger regulations on gas line purging before construction work.
- Mandatory inspections before shutting off or modifying gas pipelines.
- Increased safety training for construction workers handling gas-related work.
FAQs
What caused the Taichung department store explosion?
The explosion was caused by a gas leak from unpurged residual gas in branch pipes. The gas ignited when a grinder created sparks during construction work.
How many people died in the explosion?
A total of five people lost their lives, including a Macau family caught in the blast. A two-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries on March 7, raising the death toll.
Who is being held responsible for the explosion?
The case is being investigated under negligent homicide, negligence resulting in injuries, and public endangerment. Prosecutors are reviewing the role of the construction company and the gas company.
What safety measures are being considered to prevent similar accidents?
Authorities are discussing stricter gas line maintenance regulations, mandatory inspections, and enhanced worker safety training to prevent future accidents.
Was the explosion an accident or negligence?
While the explosion was accidental, negligence in handling gas line purging and safety protocols appears to have played a significant role. Investigators are reviewing all safety procedures involved.
