In the early hours of May 13, 2022, tragedy struck a Housing Board flat in Bedok North, Singapore. A fire erupted, claiming the lives of three individuals: three-year-old Tan Hui En, her father Tan Soon Keong, and their flatmate Chan Ai Lin Aileen.
During the opening of the coroner’s inquiry earlier today (30 June), it was revealed that the fire was likely ignited by a lit cigarette. The cigarette had been left behind by Ms. Chan’s boyfriend, referred to as Mr. Ithnin in court.
Allegedly, Mr. Ithnin had placed the cigarette on a cardboard box beside a recliner before leaving the flat for work at approximately 5 am. Later, he remembered the cigarette and sent voice messages to Ms. Chan, asking her to dispose of it.
Although Ms. Chan indicated that she had disposed of the cigarette, the fire investigator on the case explained that there might have been “some heat exchange” when the burning tip of the cigarette came into contact with the cardboard.
Under specific conditions, such as ventilation and fuel, the heat can continue to be generated. This process, known as smouldering, may not immediately result in visible flames but can cause the materials to slowly burn over time.
The investigation highlighted the cluttered nature of the flat, with cardboard boxes, wood pieces, and combustible furniture items in the living room. Such an environment provided ample fuel for the fire to spread rapidly.
The presence of combustible materials increased the risk and intensity of the blaze, making it more difficult for the occupants to escape.
After identifying the likely area of the fire’s origin, investigators ruled out other potential causes, including electric appliances and a ceiling light. These items were found to be in good working condition, further reinforcing the likelihood of the cigarette as the ignition source.
Tragically, the fire claimed the lives of three individuals. The three-year-old toddler, Tan Hui En, died in the hospital due to inhaling fire fumes, along with evidence of thermal and possible chemical injury to her airway and lungs.
Her father, Tan Soon Keong, also succumbed to inhalation of fire fumes. Additionally, Ms. Chan, their flatmate, suffered extensive burns and inhalation of fire fumes, leading to her tragic demise.
The sole survivor of the fire, the late Mr. Tan’s wife and mother of the toddler, remains in critical condition in a hospital in Malaysia. She has been left in a vegetative state, and it is unlikely that she will regain a normal life.
The police investigation concluded that there was no foul play involved in the incident. Mr. Ithnin expressed remorse and stated that he would have returned to the flat to remove the cigarette if Ms. Chan had not replied to his messages. The evidence suggested that it was an unfortunate accident resulting from the cigarette left behind.
The coroner will be returning at an undetermined date to provide his findings on the case.
