Fire Fire at House of Prominent Politician in Udon Thani

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Authorities in Udon Thani are investigating a mysterious fire that broke out late at night on 13 May, at a traditional Thai-style house belonging to a well-known local politician. Initial findings suggest the blaze may have been caused by a candle left unattended, but arson has not yet been ruled out.

 

The incident occurred at approximately 21:00, in Chaiwan District. Emergency services were alerted when flames were spotted engulfing the upper floor of the large wooden house, located on a three-rai plot in Moo 2, Ban Chaiwan. The house, built entirely of timber and supported by 15 large wooden pillars, sustained significant damage before firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control.

 

Local residents notified firefighters from the nearby Chaiwan municipal office, who arrived promptly and prevented the fire from consuming the entire property. An estimated 30% of the structure was damaged, with the loss valued at around 300,000 baht.

 

Mr. Bandhoon Narisarangkoon, Chaiwan District Chief, and Pol. Col. Rattapolchai Phensongkram, Superintendent of Chaiwan Police Station, visited the scene alongside forensic investigators to determine the cause of the fire. Authorities noted that the house had been disconnected from the power grid for two to three months, making an electrical short circuit an unlikely cause.

 

The politician who owns the house, currently overseas on a work trip, explained to reporters that he had inherited the home from his late mother. While he no longer resides there, the property was handed over to his two younger brothers for maintenance. He believes the fire may have started from a candle left burning while his nephew, who stays in the house, was out.

 

“I don’t believe it was arson,” he said. “The house is old, all wood, and if a candle was left unattended, it could have easily caused the fire. I will return on 19 May to inspect the property myself.”

 

Pol. Col. Rattapolchai confirmed that while the fire was successfully contained, the exact cause remains under investigation. “We’re not ruling out any possibilities. Whether it was accidental or intentional will be determined after a thorough forensic analysis,” he stated.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-15.