TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Rescuers found a 19th body Wednesday in Hualien, likely the missing gravel plant owner swept away when the Mataian Creek barrier lake overflowed, CNA reported.
The owner’s vehicle was found buried in mud near Fozu Street in Guangfu Township. Fire officials said the car was identified as belonging to the missing business owner. Her identity will be confirmed later by prosecutors.
Chi Lien-cheng (季連成), chief coordinator of the Central Disaster Response Coordination Office, added that the military has now taken over cleanup of the Fozu Street disaster zone. He said troops will focus on clearing debris and sludge, CNA reported.
One-third of the drainage has been cleared, and the rest is expected to be finished by mid-October, Chi said. He added that electricity and water have been put back on.
Chi also said 121 residents are still staying at Dajin Elementary School. Officials plan to move them to temporary housing soon.
Mataian Creek barrier lake burst during Typhoon Ragasa on Sept. 23. The sudden release of water swept through Hualien’s Guangfu Township causing 18 confirmed deaths, with six missing.






