Two members of a family visiting from Macao were among at least four people who were killed in a suspected gas explosion at a department store in Taiwan’s Taichung on Thursday. 

Local media reported that five other members of the family were hurt in the blast, including a 2-year-old girl who was severely injured.

The explosion occurred at 11 am on the 12th floor of the building, and was reportedly triggered by construction work. The explosion blew away parts of windows, walls and other items, which hit the tourists from Macao who were walking past the entrance at the time.

Two elderly family members were confirmed dead by local authorities, while five others were injured. The 2-year-old suffered severe head injuries and required emergency intubation.

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At 3:30 pm, the death toll was four with 26 people injured. Over 240 people were evacuated or rescued from the scene, according to local media reports.

The Macao Government Tourism Office said on Thursday afternoon that they were in contact with the families affected and will provide necessary support. The office said that there were no Macao tour groups in the area.

The Hong Kong Immigration Department said it had not received any requests for assistance from Hong Kong residents.

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Local media reports suggested construction may have triggered the suspected gas explosion. Confirming that no one was trapped, the search and rescue operation was suspended at 5 pm. The cause of the explosion is under investigation.

Contact the writer at amberwu@chinadailyhk.com