Gas Explosion in Taichung Apartment Building: Investigation Underway

A 64-year-old resident of an apartment building in Taichung, Taiwan, was injured in a gas explosion, despite prior reports of a gas leak.

A gas explosion occurred at approximately 10:00 AM on May 25th in an apartment building located on Changping Road, Beitun District, Taichung, Taiwan. The incident resulted in injuries to a 64-year-old male resident who was in the kitchen when the explosion occurred. He sustained burns to his face and limbs and was immediately transported to China Medical University Hospital.

According to initial reports, the explosion happened when the resident attempted to ignite the gas stove. The force of the blast damaged the doors and windows of the apartment. The injured individual is currently conscious.

The Taichung Fire Department responded to the scene at 10:24 AM. Upon arrival, they found that the explosion originated on the 9th floor of the 9-story building. Firefighters extinguished the fire, and paramedics provided initial treatment to the injured resident. The resident stated that he did not smell gas before igniting the stove.

Prior to the explosion, residents reported a gas smell as early as the previous day. According to one resident, the fire department and the gas company visited the building three times after the initial reports. The building's management committee also posted notices at the main entrance. Another resident reported hearing a loud bang followed by the injured man's cries for help.

A local leader mentioned that the fire department and gas company had inspected the building and identified a potential leak. They had reportedly shut off the main gas supply. The official speculated that the explosion might have been triggered by the resident turning on an electrical appliance, and the gas needed to be ventilated.