Now to a shocking and devastating loss of life in one of Asia's up-and-coming regions.<br />At least 18 people have been killed and almost 180 others injured after a passenger train derailed in northeastern Taiwan. <br />Ro Aram reports. <br /> The accident took place in Yilan County just before 5 p.m. on Sunday, local time, on a line that is popular to tourists.<br />It was carrying 366 passengers and travelling between Taipei and the eastern county of Taitung when all eight of its carriages derailed.<br />The derailment reportedly occurred on a bend near Xinma station, located about 70 kilometers from the capital. <br />It was unclear what caused the crash, but witnesses say they heard a loud noise then sparks and smoke.<br /> Railway authorities have launched an investigation.<br />Hundreds of rescuers and military personnel worked through Sunday night to search of survivors, with ambulances stationed nearby.<br />Officials have been able to evacuate all survivors and remove all bodies from the wreckage.<br />Local media say the accident was Taiwan's deadliest rail disaster in more than three decades. <br />30 people were killed in a 1981 collision in northern Taiwan.<br /> The island's leader, Tsai Ing-wen, tweeted her condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as a major tragedy. <br />Ro Aram, Arirang News. <br />
