Eight People Sent To Hospital After Major Fire At MacPherson HDB Block
Eight people were taken to hospital after a fire broke out at a residential unit in a Housing and Development Board (HDB) block along Joo Seng Road in Singapore.
The blaze occurred on the night of May 4 at Block 14, Joo Seng Road, located in the MacPherson area. According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force, emergency services were alerted to the incident at around 9:40pm.
Authorities later confirmed that a 44-year-old man was arrested at the scene for suspected mischief by fire. Investigations into the incident are still ongoing.
Photos circulating online showed thick smoke and intense flames coming from the upper floors of the HDB block, drawing the attention of nearby residents and passers-by.
Fire Engulfed Entire Unit On 18th Floor
When firefighters arrived at the scene, the fire had already engulfed the entire unit located on the 18th floor of the residential block.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force stated that firefighters deployed two water jets to bring the blaze under control. Prior to their arrival, three occupants had already evacuated from the affected flat.
Several residents in the surrounding units were reportedly affected by smoke inhalation during the incident. Eight individuals were assessed by paramedics before being conveyed to Singapore General Hospital for further medical treatment and observation.
The incident also affected emergency responders. During firefighting operations, two SCDF firefighters reportedly felt unwell and were also sent to Singapore General Hospital as a precautionary measure.
The fire attracted significant public attention, especially given the density of residential housing in the MacPherson estate. Fires in high-rise HDB flats remain a major concern in Singapore due to the risk of rapid smoke spread through corridors and neighbouring units.
Preliminary Findings Suggest Fire May Have Been Deliberately Started
In an update issued after the incident, the Singapore Civil Defence Force said preliminary investigations indicated that the fire could have been intentionally started.
Damping down operations continued after the flames were extinguished to prevent any hidden embers from reigniting. Authorities also cordoned off parts of the affected area while investigations were carried out.
The Singapore Police Force confirmed that a man had been arrested for alleged mischief by fire, a serious offence under Singapore law. If convicted, offenders can face substantial jail terms and financial penalties depending on the severity of the damage and injuries caused.
The case has once again highlighted concerns surrounding fire safety in Singapore’s densely populated public housing estates. Residents are often reminded to remain vigilant, avoid storing flammable materials unnecessarily, and report suspicious activities promptly.
Police investigations into the cause of the blaze and the circumstances leading up to the incident are continuing.