Fierce Blaze Destroys Home in Ayutthaya, Pets Perish in Flames

Pictured from responders.

A devastating fire erupted late on the evening of April 19 in the Wang Noi district of Ayutthaya province, reducing a single-storey home to ashes and killing numerous cats and dogs trapped inside. The heartbroken homeowner reportedly attempted to rush into the flames to save his animals but was held back by rescue personnel.

The blaze broke out at approximately 22:30, in Lam Ta Sao subdistrict. Police Lieutenant Phuriwat Pansrikaeng of Wang Noi Police Station was alerted to the incident and immediately dispatched to the scene, accompanied by fire engines from the Lam Ta Sao municipal fire service, local emergency responders, and rescue volunteers from the Phutthaisawan Foundation.

Upon arrival, the house was already engulfed in flames. The property, a concrete home in a housing estate, was surrounded by piles of accumulated rubbish. Strong winds contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, making it difficult to contain. Firefighters battled the inferno for over 50 minutes before finally bringing it under control. By that time, the house had been completely destroyed.

Three cats were found dead from burns and smoke inhalation, and several dogs also perished in the fire. Rescuers managed to save around 10 cats during the chaos. The owner, identified as 40-year-old Mr Thanapon, sustained minor burns while trying to rescue his pets. He was reportedly distraught and had to be restrained from running into the burning structure.

Mr Thanapon told authorities that the house had previously belonged to him but had since been repossessed. He had been allowed to remain there temporarily and earned a living by collecting and sorting rubbish for resale. The electricity had been cut off some time ago, leaving him without power. The grounds around the house were strewn with waste material, which may have contributed to the intensity and spread of the fire. He stated that he had gone out to buy supplies and returned to find the property in flames. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

Local police have coordinated with forensic investigators from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya to examine the site and determine the exact cause of the blaze. Investigations are ongoing in accordance with legal procedures.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod.

-- 2025-04-21