Mueang chaiyaphum: Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire that completely destroyed a traditional Thai house. The son of the homeowner was seen holding a knife and a lighter on the roof before the fire broke out in the Mueang Chaiyaphum district, raising suspicions about the incident.
According to Thai News Agency, a video and photos emerged after the fire at the house in Ban Khilek Noi-Prang Ku, Mueang Chaiyaphum district, Chaiyaphum province. The footage showed the homeowner's child on the roof with a knife and lighter, and a caption suggested an imminent explosion. The authorities, supported by water trucks and rescue workers from Sawang Khuntham Chaiyaphum, responded quickly. They encountered a rapidly spreading fire in the two-story wooden house, which started on the lower floor and moved upwards. It took over an hour of firefighting efforts to control the blaze.
A neighbor described witnessing the flames in the kitchen and attempting to extinguish the fire with water alongside two children. During this effort, a gas tank exploded, prompting them to evacuate and call for assistance. The homeowner stated they were out buying groceries when the fire began, and upon returning, found their home already ablaze.
Pol. Lt. Khanti Piansungnoen, Deputy Investigator at Mueang Chaiyaphum Police Station, reported that the homeowner's child was taken for psychiatric treatment due to inappropriate behavior, including undressing. The police have involved Chaiyaphum forensic officers to examine the site and determine if arson is a factor. Investigations will include questioning the homeowner, neighbors, and eventually, the homeowner's child when their condition improves. A comprehensive report on the fire's cause will conclude the investigation.