PATTAYA, THAILAND – A foreign man was suspected of setting fire to his own condominium unit in the early hours, leaving three residents injured by smoke.
Fire in the early morning hours
The incident occurred on 21 April in a condominium in Central Pattaya, after police and rescue teams were alerted to a fire in one unit. Thick smoke poured from the affected room as responders moved quickly to contain the blaze.
Emergency personnel worked inside the building while securing the surrounding area to stop the fire from spreading. The operation focused on gaining control of the unit and protecting nearby residents.
Three injured by smoke
Inside the apartment, helpers found three injured people, initially described as a father, mother and child who had inhaled smoke. They received first aid at the scene and were then taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
Official information on their condition was not immediately available, according to the authorities. No additional injuries were reported from other units in the building.
Suspicion of deliberate arson
According to initial reports, the foreign resident of the unit was suspected of having deliberately started the fire. Officials stated that the apparent trigger was his conviction that someone wanted to harm him.
“He was reportedly convinced that someone wanted to do something to him.”
said authorities, describing the background to the incident. Investigators treated the case as a possible intentional act while keeping other causes under review.
Signs of paranoia
Responders described the man at the time of the incident as apparently affected by paranoia. His behaviour on site prompted additional concerns beyond the alleged arson.
Because of this, investigators planned to assess both the cause of the fire and the suspect’s mental state. Authorities indicated that any legal steps would take this evaluation into account.
Fire quickly contained, evacuations
The fire brigade brought the blaze under control quickly and prevented flames from spreading to neighbouring units. Their rapid response limited structural damage within the condominium.
Despite this, there was considerable unrest among residents, some of whom were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. Emergency teams secured the area while the building was checked for remaining smoke and potential hazards.
Investigation ongoing, identities withheld
Police launched an investigation to clarify the exact cause of the fire and to consider possible legal proceedings. For the time being, the case remained under active review.
The identities and nationalities of those involved had not yet been released. Further updates were expected as the investigation progressed and more details became available.