TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A junior high school student went missing in Chiayi's Shuishang Township on Wednesday (Sept. 18) afternoon, and searches are ongoing.
The missing student was with another student near Chilan River. It was reported around 5 p.m. that a 15-year-old male had fallen into the water near a detention pond, per CNA.
The Chiayi County Fire Bureau dispatched seven divisions with 13 firetrucks, 16 firefighters, and three rubber boats to the scene. The search was suspended due to poor weather conditions and resumed Thursday (Sept. 20) morning.
Due to heavy rain, the water level of the Chilan River rose rapidly, hindering the search. The on-site commander temporarily paused the search after consulting with the family.
The search resumed later with 14 firetrucks, 19 firefighters, and 3 rubber boats on site. Meanwhile, an ambulance parked on a bridge crossing the Chilan River was struck by a scooter, injuring the rider who was sent to the hospital.
The Chilan River is a major tributary of the Bajhang River.