Gas Explosion on Gao Cui Road in Hsinchu City Kills 2; Preliminary Cause Linked to Gas Leak

(CNA reporter Kuo Hsuan-wen, Hsinchu City, June 9) The Hsinchu City Government announced that a gas explosion occurred on Gao Cui Road, resulting in two deaths. Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion was likely caused by a leak from a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder or pipeline, which may have been ignited by an electrical spark. The exact cause remains under investigation.

According to the Hsinchu City Fire Department, they received a public report at 3:52 AM stating that there was a suspected gas leak at a residence on Gao Cui Road in the East District of Hsinchu City. Firefighters arrived on the scene at 4:05 AM and reported a major explosion at 4:08 AM, prompting immediate dispatch of additional rescue personnel.

The Hsinchu City Government held a press conference at 2:00 PM today. Fire Chief Li Shih-kung stated that the explosion occurred at a residential building operating as a lunchbox shop, severely affecting two adjacent buildings. The blast impacted an area of approximately 40 to 60 ping (about 132 to 198 square meters), damaging 93 motorcycles and 40 cars.

Li noted that the explosion affected households at Gao Cui Road numbers 222 to 276, 215 to 259, and Lane 221, Alley 2, numbers 2 to 40, totaling 57 affected households.

He explained that initial fire investigation results suggest the leak originated from an LPG cylinder or a rupture in its pipeline. After the gas leaked, it may have encountered an electrical spark, triggering the explosion. The precise cause is still under investigation.

Hsinchu Mayor Kao Hung-an stated that structural safety assessments are being conducted in collaboration with the Architects Association. Except for the explosion site and two adjacent households, which remain off-limits due to ongoing fire investigations, surrounding buildings have been preliminarily deemed safe from immediate collapse.

She added that the Taxation Bureau will follow the principles of 'leniency, speed, and simplicity' to proactively inspect damaged properties and assist victims in applying for reductions or suspensions of local taxes such as house tax, land value tax, and license plate tax. The city will also support victims with repairs, restoration, and subrogation claims. (Edited by Lin Shu-hui) 1150609