Title: Deadly Fire and Explosions at Golf Ball Factory Rock Southern Taiwan
Date: September 23, 2023, 1:45 AM ET
Duration: 2 minutes read
BEIJING – A fire and subsequent explosions at a golf ball factory in southern Taiwan have claimed the lives of at least five people, while over 100 others have been injured. Rescue efforts are ongoing as five individuals remain missing.
The tragic incident unfolded on Friday night at a factory located in Pingtung county, with the fire raging throughout the night. Disturbingly, three firefighters were among the deceased, as confirmed by authorities.
Rescuers continue their search for four factory workers and one firefighter who are yet to be accounted for, according to officials. The intense blaze resulted in more than 100 individuals being rushed to nearby hospitals with injuries.
Expressing her condolences, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen addressed the nation from Taipei on Saturday. She revealed her plans to visit Pingtung to personally offer support to those affected by the disaster, as reported by Taiwanese news outlet Focus Taiwan.
President Tsai praised the efforts of the Pingtung county government, highlighting the establishment of an emergency operation center to provide assistance to those impacted by the fire.
Pingtung County Magistrate, Chou Chun-mi, shared her sentiments and posted on Facebook, explaining that investigations into the cause of the fire are currently underway. Having visited the funeral home and spoken with victims’ families, Magistrate Chou expressed profound grief, offering her sincerest apologies and condolences.
Authorities believe that natural gas may have played a role in the explosions that occurred while firefighters were fighting the blaze.
Investigators are diligently working to determine the exact cause of the fire, offering hope for answers amidst the anguish and devastation felt by the victims’ families and the wider community.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety, prompting calls for increased measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
As the community gathers to mourn the loss of loved ones and support those injured, the nation remains united in solidarity during this difficult time.