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Daejeon Auto-Parts Factory Fire Leaves 14 Dead as Search Ends, Probe Begins

Officials have moved from rescue to a formal investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Overview

  • Fire authorities confirmed all 14 previously unaccounted-for workers were found dead after overnight searches and debris removal.
  • Roughly 58 to 60 people were injured, including two firefighters, with many hurt by smoke inhalation or falls while escaping.
  • The blaze broke out around 1:17 p.m. on March 20 and was fully extinguished in about 10 and a half hours, with around 170 employees on site.
  • Stored sodium of about 200 kilograms and collapse risks kept crews out for hours; responders used drones and unmanned firefighting robots before entering at about 10:50 p.m.
  • The plant belongs to Anjun (Anjeon) Industrial, a Hyundai and Kia supplier per its website; the company chief issued an apology as the government set up a central response and pledged support to victims and families.