Cops: Don’t speculate on Pandan Perdana house fire

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have urged the press and public to stop pegging the fire that razed down a two-storey terrace house in Pandan Perdana as an act of suicide.

The body of businessman Ng Chee Wai, 52, and his semi-conscious daughter, 17-year-old Ng Qi Jang, were found in a room on the second floor by firefighters on Sunday evening. 

Qi Jang was reportedly found with cuts on her wrist, leading to speculations of attempted suicide. 

Ampang Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Khairuldin Saad said that the cuts could have been incurred while the girl was trying to escape the fire.

“We believe that the victims tried escaping through the grilled window, but failed.

“We are waiting for full reports from the fire and rescue team involved in putting out the flames.

“Until we are able to ascertain the real cause of the fire, we advise the press and public to tone down their speculations on the matter,” he said on Monday. 

According to the district police chief, post-mortem results showed the businessman died due to severe burns and soot inhalation. 

“The case is currently being investigated as sudden death (SDR),” ACP Khairuldin said. 

The teenager, meanwhile, is still in critical condition and receiving treatment at the Ampang Hospital.

He added that the police are working hand-in-hand with the firefighters to identify the source of the fire.

“We haven’t ruled out the possibility that the flame was ignited by burning incense sticks, since the house is located next to a store selling them,” he added. 

Hulu Langat Fire and Rescue Zone chief Supt Hamdan Daud said the fire was believed to have started at 5.40pm on the first floor. 

Fifteen firemen from the Pandan and Ampang fire and rescue departments were despatched to the site to put out the flame.

It is believed that the deceased was a divorcee and was living in the house with his daughter.