70s Man Who Set Motel Fire Causing 3 Deaths Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison

A fire caused by arson broke out around 2:39 a.m. on November 25 last year at a motel in Gongdeok-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, resulting in 2 deaths and 9 injuries. The fire started when a man in his 60s, who had been staying long-term on the first floor of the building, set fire to his room in anger after a quarrel with the motel owner over asking for alcohol. On that morning, police and fire department investigators were preparing to inspect the fire scene.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Dong-hoon] The prosecution has demanded a 30-year prison sentence for Jo Mo (70), who was indicted on charges of setting fire to a motel in Mapo-gu, Seoul, resulting in the deaths of three people.

On the 16th, at the sentencing hearing held at the Seoul Western District Court Criminal Division 11 (Presiding Judge Moon Byung-chan), the prosecution requested the court to sentence Jo, who is charged with arson causing death and injury to property, to 30 years in prison, stating, "The defendant's arson caused the deaths of three people and resulted in eight innocent victims."

The prosecution pointed out, "Despite the presence of the prosecution office and police station near the motel, the defendant set the fire and fled without making any rescue efforts such as calling 119, which is highly condemnable," adding, "The defendant has a history of similar offenses including assault and has previously received suspended sentences, making this the fourth offense." They further stated, "Since the defendant committed another crime during the suspended sentence period, there is a strong need for long-term isolation from society."

On November 25 of last year, at around 2:38 a.m., Jo, who was staying at a motel in Mapo-gu, demanded alcohol from the owner, Park Mo, and after being refused, got into an argument and set fire with a lighter in his room. The fire caused the deaths of three out of 14 motel guests due to carbon monoxide poisoning, and five others, including Park, were injured.

Jo's defense argued for leniency, stating, "There was no intent to cause multiple casualties; it was an impulsive and spontaneous crime," and appealed for consideration due to his advanced age and underlying health conditions. The first trial sentencing is scheduled for the 21st of next month.