A desperate attempt to eliminate a cockroach has led to a devastating outcome in South Korea, where a young mother lost her life and several others were injured in an apartment fire. The incident, reported by The BBC, occurred on October 20th when a woman in her twenties reportedly used a makeshift flamethrower—created with hairspray and a lighter—to kill the insect. Tragically, this action ignited a blaze that rapidly spread through her apartment building.
Authorities in Osan stated that the improvised flame quickly engulfed the apartment and the building’s stairwell, trapping residents. The suspect is now facing criminal charges, including negligence causing death and arson. A warrant has been issued for her arrest due to concerns she may flee.
According to a report from People magazine, among those attempting to escape the inferno was a woman in her thirties, a new mother who had given birth just two months prior. With the stairwell consumed by smoke, she and her husband tried to flee through a fifth-floor window, passing their infant daughter to neighbors in an adjacent building. While the husband managed to escape safely, the mother tragically slipped during the perilous descent, falling five stories. She was taken to the hospital but unfortunately passed away from her injuries. Their baby daughter is reportedly safe.
In addition to the fatality, eight other individuals sustained minor injuries, primarily from smoke inhalation. Investigations into the exact cause and progression of the fire are ongoing and will be handed over to prosecutors for further review.