In the wake of a powerful earthquake that shook Taiwan on Wednesday morning, government officials have reported a grim tally: 9 confirmed deaths, over 800 injured, and 127 individuals still trapped as of 4:30 p.m.

The initial reports of fatalities emerged earlier in the day, with four deaths attributed to the quake. Among them were three hikers tragically struck by falling rocks on the Dekarun Trail within Hualien's Taroko National Park. Additionally, a truck driver met his demise when he was hit by falling debris near Dachingshui Tunnel.

Newly reported casualties include another victim within Taroko National Park, identified as a woman surnamed Yu, who was engaged in slope maintenance work alongside her husband on Provincial Highway 8 when she was struck by rocks. Despite efforts to save her, Yu succumbed to her injuries at Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital.

Tragically, a man in his 60s lost his life in the Taiwan Cement Corp. Renhe mining area due to falling rocks.

One of the fatalities was discovered in a vehicle crushed by debris in the parking lot of Huide Tunnel along the Suhua Highway, according to Hualien police.

The earthquake triggered numerous rockfalls along the Suhua Highway, leading to significant transportation disruptions in the area.

Authorities have yet to disclose further details regarding the two remaining reported fatalities as of 4:30 p.m.

Deputy Health Minister Victor Wang addressed reporters, reassuring that the Central Emergency Operation Center (CEOC) has communicated with Hualien health officials and affirmed that current medical resources are adequate. Efforts are underway to utilize medical facilities in Yilan and Taitung to support the overwhelmed hospitals in Hualien.

Meanwhile, the National Fire Agency has confirmed approximately 15 individuals trapped in Dachingshui Tunnel, two German nationals stuck in Chongde Tunnel, and 60 people stranded in Jinwen Tunnel, all of whom are undergoing rescue operations.

An additional 50 individuals are trapped aboard shuttle buses en route from downtown Hualien to Silks Place Taroko hotel.

The agency also reported 28 buildings across the nation with tilts or partial collapses, including 17 in Hualien County, one in Yilan County, two in Keelung City, and eight in New Taipei.

Furthermore, 22 people have been rescued from a collapsed residential structure in Hualien County, with rescuers continuing efforts to retrieve the body of a woman believed to have perished in the incident, as confirmed by Hualien police.