fire

The fire late Saturday was sparked by an accidental explosion of a coloured theatrical powder thrown from the stage in front of about 1,000 people, the local fire agency and media said. 

The powder for the one-time event called "Color Play Asia" ignited along the ground, mainly burning people's lower bodies, said Wang Wei-sheng, a liaison with the New Taipei City fire department command center.

The exact cause of the fire was still being investigated, but Taiwan Premier Mao Chih-kuo banned public activities that use the colored powder.

Mexicali Mayor Jaime Diaz Ochoa said another five people were being treated at a local hospital for burns, and were in serious condition.

He said the cause of the blaze was being investigated by the state prosecutors' office.

The fire broke out early Tuesday at the nonprofit facility located in a rural area about a half-hour's drive outside Mexicali.

Diaz Ochoa said 23 residents had been taken to a temporary city shelter, and would be referred to a city elderly care center. He said most were apparently over 75 years old.

Acting Police Station Commander at Kwikila Waida Kosa says the suspect taken into custody yesterday is yet to be questioned.

He says he will be questioned once forensic investigators complete their investigations at the fire scene.

Kosa says investigators also went into Gabagaba village today to talk to villagers in a bid to establish a lead.

“We are confident more suspects will be identified and those responsible will be charged accordingly," he added.