Truck plows into market crowd in South Korea, killing two, injuring dozens

Two people were killed and at least 20 others injured on November 13 when a truck veered onto a sidewalk and crashed into an outdoor market in the South Korean city of Bucheon, west of Seoul. 

The vehicle, driven by a man in his 60s, struck pedestrians at around 10:55 a.m. local time. Two women who went into cardiac arrest were later pronounced dead, while at least eight other victims sustained serious injuries. All of the injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, Caliber.Az reports via Korean media.

Police said the driver was rescued after being trapped inside the vehicle but was not in critical condition. Tests confirmed he was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

The truck appeared to have reversed roughly 28 meters before accelerating rapidly toward the market, traveling about 100 meters through the crowded area before slamming into a storefront and coming to a stop.

The driver reportedly told investigators that the vehicle experienced a sudden acceleration and that the brakes had failed. Authorities have impounded the truck for a mechanical inspection to determine the exact cause of the incident.

Police have charged the man under South Korea’s Traffic Accident Special Act with negligent homicide and injury. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing.

By Sabina Mammadli