Key takeaways:

• A suspected gas explosion at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung has resulted in at least four fatalities.
• The blast occurred around 11:30 am on a food court level currently under renovation, injuring at least ten others.
• Authorities have initiated extensive search and rescue operations with over 56 emergency vehicles deployed.
• Among the deceased were two visitors from Macau, including a young child who remains in critical condition.

In Taichung, Taiwan, a devastating explosion rocked the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store on Thursday, resulting in at least four confirmed deaths and injuring several others. The explosion, suspected to be caused by a gas leak during renovation work on the 12th floor, prompted a massive response from emergency services.

According to reports from local authorities, including Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia, the explosion sent various materials flying, injuring at least 10 individuals in addition to the fatalities. Eyewitnesses recounted the violence of the blast, describing vibrations felt several blocks away.

The tragic incident involved a family visiting from Macau. Reports indicate that while walking near the department store, heavy debris struck them due to the explosion's force. The family’s grandfather died instantly, while the grandmother succumbed to cardiac arrest shortly after.

In response to the emergency, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen confirmed that the local fire department deployed around 62 firefighters and 27 fire trucks to the site, emphasizing the need for public cooperation as investigations continue. "The explosion is very serious and the rescue is ongoing," she stated, insisting that the area be avoided by onlookers for safety reasons.

Local media have begun to flood social channels with images of the debris, revealing extensive damage both inside the department store and in the surrounding areas. Authorities have cautioned that a full investigation will take time and are urging the public to stay clear of the impacted zone until deemed safe.

The Taiwanese government has called for a swift investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion, as concerns rise over safety regulations during construction activities in commercial spaces.