The professional baseball NC Dinos will conduct safety inspections of their home stadium, Changwon NC Park, earlier than scheduled.
NC announced on the 31st that "the safety inspection schedule has been changed to April 1." Originally, the safety inspections at NC Park were scheduled to start on April 3. NC explained, "The safety inspection may take several days rather than concluding in one day," and "It is expected that the safety inspection company will need to visit to determine the exact time required for the safety inspection."
A tragic accident occurred at NC Park on the 29th. At around 5:20 p.m., during a game between NC and LG, a structure (2.6m in length and 40cm in width, aluminum "louver") fixed to the wall near the concession stand in the direction of third base at NC Park fell, injuring three spectators below. Among the three injured in the incident, two were sisters in their 20s who were watching the game together.
The sister who was hit on the head by the structure was transported to the hospital in critical condition and underwent surgery but unfortunately passed away on the 31st. The younger sister also suffered a fractured collarbone and is receiving treatment at the hospital. Another individual sustained leg injuries and was transported to the hospital due to significant psychological shock.
Following the death of the victim, the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) stated, "Due to the accident that occurred at Changwon NC Park on March 29, a fan who loves baseball has sadly passed away. The KBO extends its deepest condolences to the victims and their bereaved families. We also sincerely wish for the speedy recovery of the two individuals still suffering from injuries."
The organization continued, "From April 1 to 3, a mourning period has been set, and on the 1st, all KBO League and Futures League games will not be held in honor of the victims." The three-game series between NC and SSG at the park where the accident occurred has been entirely canceled. While games will be held at the remaining four stadiums, there will be no cheering led by the cheerleading squad.
NC also stated that "a person injured in the accident that occurred at Changwon NC Park on March 29 has passed away. We extend our condolences and prayers for the deceased. We express our sincere apologies and words of comfort to the bereaved family."
[OSEN]