HSINCHU (TVBS News) — In a tragic incident late Sunday night in Hsinchu City East District (新竹市東區), two firefighters lost their lives while battling a residential building blaze.
Hsinchu Mayor Kao Hung-an (高虹安) confirmed the deaths of firefighters Li Yung-chen and Chou Li-hsin on Facebook early Monday (May 27), stating that they perished during a rescue operation after successfully evacuating more than 20 residents.
The mayor reportedly visited the bereaved families to offer condolences.
Mayor Kao also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and the accident, emphasizing the safety of firefighting personnel as a top priority. The fire, which broke out at 10:55 p.m. on Sunday, was confirmed by the Hsinchu City Government (新竹市政府) on Facebook.
The post revealed that the fire involved electrical cables in a utility shaft, producing heavy smoke. Li and Chou were declared dead in at 1:46 a.m. and 1:55 a.m., respectively, on Monday, after re-entering the building for a search and rescue mission.
The community has expressed deep sorrow and respect for the fallen heroes online, with many calling for enhanced safety equipment for firefighters. The incident has sparked a conversation about the risks firefighters face and the importance of ensuring their protection while they safeguard the lives of others.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on preventing such tragedies in the future and honoring the bravery of Li Yung-chen and Chou Li-hsin. Their sacrifice serves as a somber reminder of the dangers firefighters confront daily.