Suspected Gas Explosion at Hsinchu Residence Kills 2, Injures 2

(Central News Agency, reporter Guo Xuanwen, Hsinchu City, 9th) According to the Hsinchu City Fire Bureau, a suspected gas explosion occurred at a residence on Gaocui Road today. Preliminary investigations indicate a gas explosion, affecting approximately 8 households and 18 residents, and causing 4 injuries. Among them, 2 individuals were found in a state of OHCA (Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest) upon rescue and were pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital.

The Hsinchu City Fire Bureau issued a statement saying it received a report from residents at 3:52 AM regarding a suspected gas leak at a residence on Gaocui Road, East District, Hsinchu City. Firefighters arrived at the scene at 4:05 AM and reported a major explosion at 4:08 AM, prompting the dispatch of additional personnel for rescue operations.

Mayor Ann Kao told the media that the incident resulted in 4 injuries. A 60-year-old man surnamed Xiao suffered limb abrasions and contusions, and a 33-year-old man surnamed Gu suffered facial lacerations; both were sent to the hospital for treatment. Additionally, a 65-year-old man surnamed Wu and a 58-year-old woman surnamed Zhang were seriously injured, found in OHCA state upon rescue, and later died despite medical efforts.

She stated that the accident affected approximately 8 households and 18 residents. However, as some residents were not at the scene at the time of the incident or are still being contacted by family members, the numbers are subject to continuous updates.

Mayor Kao said the city government has established a communication mechanism through neighborhood chiefs, district offices, and various departments to confirm the needs of affected residents one by one and to fully assist with subsequent relocation and recovery work.

Gaofeng Neighborhood Chief Guo Pengxin posted on Facebook that Gaocui Road was temporarily closed in both directions due to the gas explosion but has since been reopened. Surveillance footage shows flames during the explosion, which subsequently caused severe damage to the building's exterior walls and windows.

A resident surnamed Hsu told CNA reporters that the scene showed severely damaged building exterior walls and windows, with the road covered in debris such as bricks, metal sheets, and glass. Several vehicles parked on the roadside were also affected. Firefighters and police continue search and rescue operations. (Editor: Lin Shuhui) 1150609