Tragedy at Taiwan's Yilan Green Expo: Fatal Trackless Train Accident

A tourist train malfunction leads to a fatal accident at the popular Yilan Green Expo in Taiwan, prompting immediate safety concerns.

Taipei, Taiwan – April 4, 2024 - A tragic incident at the Yilan Green Expo in Taiwan resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man on Friday after a trackless tourist train malfunctioned.

Eyewitness accounts indicate the man, along with his 78-year-old wife, were caught in the path of the out-of-control vehicle at the Wulaokeng Scenic Area. The speeding train struck the couple before overturning, preventing them from escaping.

The man was declared dead at the scene and later confirmed at a local hospital. His wife sustained a fractured arm and was transported to a separate medical facility for treatment.

Initial reports indicate the driver, identified as a 45-year-old licensed truck driver named Chen (陳), was temporarily employed for the event. Chen was operating the empty train, returning it for charging, when the brakes reportedly failed.

According to Chen, he sounded the train's bell to alert pedestrians. However, while attempting to avoid a potential collision, the train lost control and overturned.

Lee Hsin-tai (李新泰), head of the Yilan County Agriculture Department, stated that the Green Expo, which commenced on March 29 and has seen high visitor numbers, features two electric tour trains. These trains offer paid rides with audio guides.

Each train, composed of two or three carriages, is designed to accommodate up to 40 passengers and operates at speeds of 20-30 kilometers per hour, as stated by Lee.

Following the accident, authorities made the decision to halt the train service and close the park on Saturday as investigations commenced.