The death toll from Tuesday’s gas explosion at Taichung’s Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store has risen to 4 deaths and 34 injured, with a two-year-old girl from Macau fighting for her life following emergency brain surgery. The incident has particularly impacted a Macau family of seven, resulting in two deaths and five injuries among its members.
China Medical University Hospital Neurosurgery Director Dr. Cheng Yu-kai (鄭宇凱) reported that the young patient arrived with severe head trauma, brain swelling, and skull fractures. While her vital signs have stabilized following a decompressive craniotomy, she remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit with concerns about continued brain swelling and oxygen deprivation.
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced that the victims' families are arriving from Macau today, with established communication channels to assist with immigration, medical care, visa extensions, and other administrative matters. Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng (賀一誠) has expressed deep concern, dispatching a crisis assistance team alongside the Macau Red Cross to provide support.
Currently, 14 patients are being treated across 4 Taichung hospitals, with 6 people remaining in intensive care units. Hospital officials note that the next week will be crucial for the Macau child’s recovery as they continue monitoring her condition closely.