Breaking: New Developments in the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Gas Explosion in Taiwan

Investigation Intensifies: Several Individuals Now Face Charges of Negligent Homicide.

The investigation into the tragic gas explosion at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, Taiwan, which resulted in five fatalities and over thirty injuries, is progressing. Reports suggest that the main gas valve within the store was not shut off at the time of the incident, and gas sensors had been removed. Prosecutors are currently investigating the potential responsibility of Hsin Chung Gas.

Following nearly two months of investigation, the Taichung District Prosecutors Office has summoned numerous witnesses. In a significant development, several individuals present at the scene are now considered suspects and are facing charges of negligent homicide. Further interviews are anticipated.

The Taichung Fire Department's fire investigation in late March determined that the gas explosion was the cause of the disaster. A crucial element of the ongoing investigation involves the labor inspection report, which will assess whether employers and occupational safety and health procedures were at fault. Despite a lengthy investigation, no one was previously named in the report, however, authorities have seized mobile phones with witness consent, highlighting the urgency of securing evidence.