Police Rule Out Arson in Drama Troupe Costume Fire
Police ruled out arson in a fire at a Chachoengsao drama troupe's costume storage facility on September 18, determining an electrical short circuit from a faulty fan caused the blaze that destroyed costumes and damaged a vehicle worth at le
Police investigating a fire at the Khun Noo Rak Taae drama troupe's costume storage facility near Koh Kaew Wetluwun Temple in Chachoengsao determined the blaze was likely caused by an electrical short circuit from a faulty fan, not arson as some have suggested. The fire, discovered at 5:26 a.m. on September 18, destroyed four complete costumes and partially burned a parked Ford Everest, with total damages estimated at no less than 400,000 baht. Police seized the fan for further examination, though they will continue investigating and following standard procedures.
Troupe leader Chalem Sin Ino, 37, expressed sadness over the incident but disagreed with the electrical short circuit theory, arguing that each troupe's wiring includes safety switches that would immediately cut power if a short occurred. However, he acknowledged having no evidence to support suspicions of intentional arson. A troupe member happened to wake early and discovered the fire while others were still sleeping. Entertainer "The Comedian," whose younger brother leads the troupe, posted online questioning why the fire would occur just two or three days before the group was scheduled to relocate from the temple grounds.
