SEOUL, April 21 (AJP) - A suspected arson fire broke out at an apartment building in southern Seoul on Monday, leaving one person dead and six others injured.
According to emergency responders, the fire began around 8 a.m. on the fourth floor of a 21-story apartment building in Bongcheon-dong, southern Seoul. Witnesses said smoke and flames quickly spread, with residents seen hanging from balconies and some attempting to escape through windows.
Two elderly women suffered serious burns and injuries from falling, while four others were taken to the hospital with various injuries.
Police identified a 61-year-old man found dead at the scene as the suspected arsonist. He lived on the third floor and was previously involved in noise-related disputes with neighbors upstairs. One altercation in September reportedly required police intervention.
Investigators say he is suspected of deliberately setting the fire. At the scene, authorities recovered a battery-powered device, possibly an electric pesticide sprayer or power washer, along with what appeared to be a suicide note. In the note, the man apologized to his family and asked his daughter to take care of her mother. The letter also contained 50,000 won (approximately $36) in cash.
Before the fire at the apartment building, the man is believed to have ignited another fire using the same spray device at a small studio apartment where his mother lived.
“We are investigating whether the fire was linked to noise-related disputes and are also reviewing the suspect’s mental health records,” said a police official.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
View more comments