Itaewon nightmare: at least 153 killed in Halloween stampede

At least 153 people have been killed with 80 others injured in a deadly stampede in Seoul's Itaewon district, as huge crowds of partygoers stampeded at late-night Halloween celebrations, fire authorities said Sunday.

The accident took place Saturday night in a narrow downhill alley near Hamilton Hotel in the famous nightlife district after a throng of partygoers flooded into it, according to witnesses.

Police said they are making utmost efforts in confirming the identity of the victims and then making contacts with their family members.