CARS

Takata reportedly weighing criminal settlement

Nathan Bomey

USA TODAY

Japanese auto supplier Takata is reportedly discussing a potential criminal settlement with the U.S. Justice Department over its exploding air bag scandal.

A worker demonstrates a pyro-electric wheel airbag initiator during a presentation for journalists at the international automotive supplier Takata Ignition Systems in 2014

North American headquarters of Takata in Auburn Hills, Mich.

Federal prosecutors uncovered "evidence of unlawful conduct" in the Takata scandal, according to the Wall Street Journal, which cited anonymous sources.

The episode has been blamed for at least 14 deaths and more than 100 injuries. It has triggered the largest automotive recall in U.S. history, covering nearly 70 million inflators and reportedly placing Takata on the precipice of insolvency.

The Journal described the settlement talks as "preliminary" and said the company is preparing an offer to prosecutors.

Takata air bag recall now largest in U.S. history

A Justice Department spokesman declined to comment Wednesday.

"Takata is cooperating with the Justice Department’s investigation," the company said in a statement.

Follow USA TODAY reporter Nathan Bomey on Twitter @NathanBomey.