Fire in abandoned Sanchong building leaves one man with 50% burns

Central News Agency, New Taipei, May 28: A fire broke out early this morning in an abandoned building in Sanchong District, New Taipei City, emitting thick smoke. Due to the large amount of debris stored inside, the fire spread to the roof of an adjacent building. Over 100 firefighters were dispatched to the scene. A man in his 60s was rescued with 50% burns and was unconscious when rushed to Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taipei. The fire was extinguished by 7:30 AM. It is understood that the building was usually abandoned, and the rescued man lived there, making a living by collecting recyclables. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation. The fire department also warned residents in Sanchong and surrounding areas to keep windows closed and wear masks when going out due to the large amount of smoke generated by the fire.