29 dead in S.Korean fire tragedy

By Alex Jensen

SEOUL

29 people were reported dead and another 29 injured Thursday in the central South Korean city of Jecheon, in North Chungcheong province, after a huge fire spread through an eight-story building.

Most of the victims were trapped inside a sauna on the second and third floors, while local officials said the blaze began in a parked car within the premises, which were also home to a gym and restaurants.

Nearly 50 fire engines as well as helicopters responded to the emergency, according to the Yonhap News Agency, as President Moon Jae-in called on rescuers to save as many people as possible.

Toxic fumes and thick smoke hampered immediate rescue efforts amid fears the death toll could rise.

Around 20 people survived by escaping to the rooftop. Dramatic footage showed another man leaping to the safety of a blanket outstretched to catch him.