A 66-year-old man has been sentenced to six months and one week in jail after a dispute with his roommate escalated into violence, including an incident where he sprayed insecticide into a lighter flame and directed the resulting fire at the victim.
The incident took place at a rental flat at Block 208A, Jalan Eunos. The accused, Ong Yong Shun, was living with another 66-year-old man identified as Mr Chen.
The pair got into an argument over their living arrangements on 22 March. The dispute lasted for several hours, from around 11am to 2.25pm, before the situation turned violent.
Roommate suffered second-degree burns
According to Shin Min Daily News, During the confrontation, Ong allegedly sprayed insecticide towards a lighter, creating a flame which he then directed at his roommate. The victim suffered second-degree burns to his right hand and forearm.
The burns measured approximately 20cm long and 5cm wide, extending from his finger joints towards the middle of his forearm. He was subsequently given five days of medical leave.
The incident did not end there. Ong also used the insecticide and lighter to set the victim’s umbrella on fire before throwing the burning umbrella out of the flat’s window. The umbrella was later recovered from downstairs.
The prosecution highlighted the dangers involved, particularly because the incident occurred inside an enclosed residential unit where a fire could potentially spread and put other occupants at risk.
Man also threatened roommate with knife
The case involved several other acts of violence. At one point, Ong allegedly picked up a knife and pointed it at his roommate while threatening him.
He also struck the victim with a mirror and threw a fan at him during the confrontation.
Fearing for his safety, the victim fled the flat and went downstairs to contact the police. Ong was arrested later that day and was charged two days afterwards. He remained in remand until his sentencing.
Ong faced seven charges, including voluntarily causing hurt, mischief by fire, criminal intimidation, performing a rash act and theft. He pleaded guilty to three charges, with the remaining offences taken into consideration during sentencing.
Court considers mental health condition and early guilty plea
The prosecution sought a jail term of between five and six months, taking into account the dangerous method used during the attack and the potential consequences of starting a fire inside a residential property.
However, the prosecution also noted several mitigating factors. Ong had pleaded guilty at an early stage, while psychiatric assessment found that he suffered from mild major depressive disorder.
The condition was assessed to have contributed to increased frustration and irritability, as well as reduced ability to control his reactions. However, the assessment also found that Ong remained capable of understanding that his actions were wrong and unlawful.
The court ultimately sentenced the 66-year-old to six months and one week in prison.
The case serves as a reminder of how quickly disputes between housemates can escalate, particularly when flammable substances and other potentially dangerous objects are involved. It also highlights the serious legal consequences that can follow violent conduct within residential premises.