A 79-year-old Swiss man died after a fire broke out in his rented room in Pong, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, early on 11 April 2026. The victim, who was bedridden, was found burned to death on his bed after flames engulfed the property. Police believe a discarded cigarette may have started the blaze.
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The fire was reported at 06:05 to investigators at Nong Prue Police Station. Officers, led by Pol Capt Damchaluay Samkanying, coordinated with Pong municipal fire services and Sawang Boriboon rescue volunteers to respond to the scene in Soi Huay Yai Muk, Moo 6, Pong subdistrict.
The property was a row of rental rooms housing several foreign residents, many of them elderly. Firefighters took around 30 minutes to bring the blaze under control and prevent it spreading to adjacent units.
Once the fire was extinguished, authorities entered room number 6 and discovered the victim’s body on the bed. The remains were severely burned and the area was secured to prevent access by unauthorised individuals.
A 31-year-old neighbour, identified as Ms Nann, said the man, identified by authorities as Holger Weisswang, lived alone and was unable to move without assistance. She added that he regularly smoked cigarettes while lying in bed, suggesting this may have caused the fire.
Another neighbour, Ms Somporn, 41, said she was alerted by the smell of smoke while sleeping. When she opened her door, she saw flames inside the victim’s room but was unable to enter due to the intensity of the fire, prompting her to call for help.
Police documented the scene and requested forensic officers from Chon Buri Provincial Forensic Division 2 to investigate the exact cause. Pol Col Nattaphon Phongsuksakul, superintendent of Nong Prue Police Station, oversaw operations.
Initial findings suggest the fire may have been caused by a smouldering cigarette, combined with the victim’s inability to escape due to his condition. The body has been transferred to hospital. The incident highlights fire risks associated with smoking, particularly among individuals with limited mobility. Authorities are expected to confirm the cause following forensic examination, as the investigation continues.
Pictures courtesy of SiamChon
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Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamChon 11 Apr 2026
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