GM Raises Ignition-Switch Death Toll to 29

The General Motors Co.'s compensation fund for victims of defective ignition switches in 2.6 million of its vehicles has accepted two more claims each of death and injury.

Last week's additions bring the list to 29 deaths and 27 injuries deemed eligible for compensation. The fund is sifting through 1,517 applications, including 146 filed since Oct. 17.

The program will accept claims through the end of this year. GM has set aside $400 million for payments but says it will spend whatever amount fund chief Kenneth Feinberg decides.

The fund says it has made 31 compensation offers and had 20 accepted to date.