A devastating fire and ensuing explosions at a golf ball manufacturing facility in southern Taiwan have resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least five individuals confirmed dead, and more than 100 others left injured. The incident has also left five people unaccounted for.
The fire ignited on Friday evening at the factory located in Pingtung county, intensifying overnight and claiming the lives of three courageous firefighters who were on the scene.
As rescue operations continue, authorities are working tirelessly to locate four factory workers and one firefighter who remain missing. Meanwhile, over 100 individuals have been transported to hospitals for treatment of their injuries.
Chou Chun-mi, magistrate of Pingtung county, said in a Facebook post that the cause of the fire was still under investigation.
“Facing the grief of the family members, I could not say anything except to bow deeply, apologize, and express my deepest condolences,” she said in the post, after visiting the funeral home and meeting with victims’ families.