TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Lin Hung-sen (林鴻森), owner of an excavator company in Taoyuan City, died from sepsis Tuesday (Oct. 7) after sustaining an injury during disaster relief efforts in Hualien. Lin had joined volunteers known as "Shovel Superheroes" (鏟子超人) to assist recovery efforts following the overflowing of Matai'an Creek's (馬太鞍溪) barrier lake in Guangfu Township (光復鄉), Hualien County, in late September. The tragic death highlights the risks faced by civilian volunteers during disaster relief operations.
Lin traveled with his nephew to Hualien the day after the devastating flood, bringing two mini-excavators to aid critical relief work operations. He injured his left foot during the demanding operations, which later became dangerously swollen and infected. Eight days into the intensive relief mission, Lin called for an ambulance and sought urgent medical attention at the Mennonite Christian Hospital (門諾醫院), where doctors discovered the serious infection threatening his health.
Lin's condition initially stabilized after medical treatment, but his health deteriorated suddenly and critically on Oct. 4. He transferred to Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (林口長庚醫院), a major medical center in Taoyuan, where despite arriving conscious and alert, he unexpectedly slipped into a life-threatening coma. The severe infection progressed rapidly to sepsis, causing fatal multiple organ failure that claimed his life.
Lin's body was returned to his excavator company for a final farewell ceremony, carefully arranged by a professional funeral services company. Lin Yi-hua (林奕華), head of the funeral services company, expressed heartfelt condolences on Facebook, honoring Lin's tireless dedication to ensuring others' safety during the disaster. The emotional tribute praised his exceptional bravery and selflessness, highlighting the profound impact of his heroic volunteer actions. ◼