NEW DELHI: An 80-year-old retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer died, while his son sustained injuries after a fire broke out at a residence in south Delhi's Hauz Khas area, police reported on Thursday. The deceased was identified as Dhanender Kumar, a former IAS officer, according to news agency PTI. He succumbed to smoke inhalation during treatment at the AIIMS Trauma Centre, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Anant Mittal.
According to police, a PCR call regarding the fire at the house was received around 11:10 pm on Wednesday. Police personnel and fire department teams promptly arrived at the scene, and two fire tenders were deployed to bring the blaze under control. Kumar and his son were rescued from the house and shifted to the hospital. While Kumar died during treatment, his son is currently undergoing medical care and is reported to be out of danger, an officer stated.
A preliminary inquiry suggests that the fire may have been triggered by a blast in the indoor unit of an air conditioner installed in the house, police said. At the time of the incident, five people, including family members and domestic help, were inside the house. A crime team inspected the spot, and an electrical inspection is underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. Statements of eyewitnesses have been recorded, and no foul play is suspected at this stage, police added.
This tragic incident highlights the potential hazards associated with electrical appliances, particularly air conditioners, which are common in households across the city. Authorities urge residents to ensure regular maintenance and safety checks of such equipment to prevent similar occurrences.
