A tragic incident unfolded in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, as a car careened into a crowd of pedestrians near Seoul City Hall, resulting in the deaths of at least nine people and leaving several others critically injured. The collision occurred late in the evening at around 9:27 PM local time, transforming a typically bustling intersection into a scene of chaos and despair. Seoul, known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets, was rocked by this devastating turn of events, marking one of the deadliest accidents in recent memory.
The vehicle, driven by a 68-year-old man whose identity has not been disclosed by authorities, suddenly struck pedestrians who were waiting at a traffic stop. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, confronting a grim aftermath of casualties and injuries. Visuals from the crash site portrayed a mangled black sedan surrounded by debris, highlighting the severity of the impact and the desperate efforts of responders amid the shock and anguish of bystanders.
Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts
Emergency services rushed to the site to attend to the victims, transporting at least four injured individuals to nearby hospitals for treatment. Tragically, six people were pronounced dead at the scene, while three others succumbed to their injuries later.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol swiftly responded to the incident, directing the Interior Ministry to mobilize “all-out” efforts in supporting the victims and their families. This directive underscores the nation’s solidarity in times of crisis, aiming to provide comprehensive care and assistance to those affected by the tragedy. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon echoed this sentiment, labeling the incident a “tragic event” and pledging thorough investigations to uncover the circumstances leading to the fatal crash.
Investigation and Possible Causes
Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine the exact circumstances and causes of the crash. They have cautioned that the casualty numbers could potentially increase as investigations continue.
The collision has sent shockwaves through the local community, prompting an outpouring of grief and solidarity among residents and authorities alike. As details continue to emerge about the driver, described as a veteran bus driver from Ansan with over four decades of driving experience, questions linger about the factors contributing to the tragic accident.
Driver’s Account and Arrest
Seoul Metropolitan Police acted promptly, apprehending the driver at the scene. Initial reports indicate that the driver claimed the car had accelerated unintentionally, leading to the tragic collision. Despite this assertion, authorities emphasized that no evidence of alcohol or intoxication was found during preliminary examinations, shifting focus to mechanical inspections of the vehicle to determine the precise cause of the accident. The driver’s vehicle, which reportedly traveled in the wrong direction and collided with two other vehicles before striking pedestrians, will undergo forensic examination to aid in the investigation.
Road Safety Concerns in South Korea
The incident has reignited concerns about road safety in South Korea. According to recent reports by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), pedestrian fatalities in South Korea account for a significant proportion of road deaths compared to other OECD countries. While overall road fatalities have declined in recent years, pedestrian safety remains a critical issue.
Authorities continue to urge caution on the roads and are appealing to the public for any additional information that could assist in their investigation.
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