Truck Plows into Bucheon Market, Killing Two and Injuring 18

Tragedy Strikes Bucheon Market

Bucheon, South Korea – A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday, November 13, 2025, when a 1-ton pickup truck plowed into pedestrians at Jeil Market, a traditional outdoor market in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province. The accident, which occurred shortly before 11 a.m. local time, resulted in the deaths of two women and left 18 others injured.

Emergency services, including approximately 20 emergency vehicles and 60 personnel, were swiftly dispatched to the scene in Wonjong-dong, Ojeong District. The two fatalities were identified as women in their 70s (some reports indicate one was in her 80s), who were found in cardiac arrest and later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Among the injured, nine people sustained serious injuries, with three experiencing impaired consciousness and six classified as emergency patients.

Driver Arrested, Investigation Underway

The driver of the truck, an unidentified man in his 60s, was arrested at the scene. Police confirmed that he was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. The driver reportedly claimed that the accident was caused by 'sudden unintended acceleration' or 'brake failure.'

Authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the exact cause of the incident. Police are analyzing CCTV footage and the vehicle's event data recorder. Initial observations from surveillance footage suggest the truck initially reversed about 28 meters (92 feet) before suddenly accelerating forward for approximately 150 meters (492 feet), colliding with pedestrians and market stalls. Police suspect the driver may have mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake. The driver faces charges of accidental homicide and injury under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Settlement of Traffic Accidents.

Community Impact and Support

The crash left a scene of devastation, with photos showing the truck jammed into a storefront amidst debris, toppled boxes, and shattered signboards. Bucheon city officials have pledged support for the affected community. Mayor Cho Yong-eek stated that the city will:

• Support the restoration of damaged facilities.
• Conduct safety inspections.
• Provide psychological support for merchants and witnesses.

The incident has deeply affected the local community, with one merchant quoted as saying, 'The sound during the accident was so loud that I thought the building was collapsing.'