More than 500 people injured in Taiwan park explosion

 By 
Laura Vitto
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Updated: Sunday, 28 June 2015 3:30 a.m. EDT

More than 500 people were injured during an explosion at a park in New Taipei City, Taiwan on Saturday, reports the country's Central News Agency, according to CNN.

Fire broke out after flammable powder apparently exploded on stage during a Color Play Asia party at Formosa Fun Coast. At these festivals, dancing patrons are sprayed with colorful clouds of powder, Reuters reports.

The explosions took place at about 8:30 p.m. local time, CNA reports. Though local firefighters were able to extinguish the fires quickly, a reported 516 people were injured, with eight in critical condition.

The victims included four mainland Chinese and two foreigners. An 18-year-old from Taiwan was burned on 90 percent of her body.

Some injured victims were laid out on inflatable pool tubes and sent to local hospitals, while others are being tended to on the premises.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

New Taipai City Mayor Eric Chu told local media that this incident is the "worst incident of mass injury (ever) in New Taipei," and put out a call for ambulance support from neighboring cities.

Central News Agency said that police were questioning two park workers who had launched the powder as well as the party's on-site organizer and two technicians. They may face charges of professional negligence causing serious injuries and endangering the public, it said.

The exact cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Additional reporting by The Associated Press.

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!