Mental Health Struggles Lead to Arson in Yasothon
On January 13, 2025, a man in Yasothon province ignited a fire that destroyed his own home in a blaze that severely damaged a two-storey wooden structure. The incident took place in Ban Song Pueay, Mueang Song Pueay, Kham Khuean Kaeo district, exacerbated by strong winds that rapidly spread the flames. The homeowner, Preecha Damngam, a 32-year-old man, reportedly set the fire while experiencing a mental health crisis.
Swift Emergency Response Prevents Further Damage
Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, deploying two fire trucks to combat the blaze. Local residents also joined the efforts to control the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby homes. Despite the intense efforts, it took more than one hour to fully extinguish the flames. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, although the home was nearly destroyed by the fire.
Preecha Damngam: The Man Behind the Blaze
The arsonist, Preecha Damngam, was apprehended by authorities at the scene. Despite the devastating consequences of his actions, he was reportedly smiling when taken into custody. The cause behind his actions remains unclear, and police are conducting an investigation to determine whether it was a result of his ongoing mental instability.
A Community in Shock: Fire’s Devastating Impact
The fire left significant damage to the property, and the community is in shock over the shocking events. Investigations into the mental health state of Preecha Damngam are ongoing, as authorities seek to understand the full scope of the incident.
Related Tragedy: A Fatal Fire in Suphan Buri
In another related fire tragedy, a blaze broke out on January 11, 2025, in a three-storey commercial building in Suphan Buri Municipality, leading to the tragic death of Phusit Rungronchaiporn, a 52-year-old candidate for District 1 Provincial Councillor, along with his family members. His wife, Kanokwan, and their two children, Teerawat (26) and Warasiri (24), also perished in the fire.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of this fire, and the community remains in mourning over the loss of Phusit and his family.
Udom Prongfa, a mayoral candidate for Suphan Buri Provincial Administrative Organisation, visited the site to offer condolences to Phusit’s father, Poonsak Rungronchaiporn, who is devastated by the loss. Udom reflected on his last dinner with Phusit, describing him as a humble and compassionate man who was beloved by the local community.