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Daejeon Auto-Parts Plant Fire Kills 11, With Three Still Missing

Hazardous sodium at the site forced a cautious response, delaying searches until the blaze was contained.

Overview

  • Authorities say the death toll rose to 11 after another body was recovered around noon Saturday, with three people still unaccounted for as debris removal continues.
  • At least 59 people were injured, including two firefighters, with 25 listed as serious and many hurt by smoke inhalation or jumps from upper floors.
  • Roughly 170 workers were inside when the fire erupted around 1:17 p.m. Friday, and crews fully extinguished the blaze after about 10 and a half hours.
  • Roughly 200 kilograms of sodium and fears of structural collapse restricted water use and delayed interior entry, prompting the use of firefighting robots and drones.
  • The National Fire Agency issued a nationwide mobilization order, and officials say the cause remains unknown after witness reports of an explosion.