PATTAYA, Thailand – A fire believed to have been triggered by an exploding gas canister broke out inside a condominium room in central Pattaya on July 5, leaving a 72-year-old American resident injured. Emergency responders were alerted at 4.16pm to a fire at Casa Espana Condominium in Soi Kasetsin 7, South Pattaya. Firefighters and rescue volunteers rushed to the scene as residents and tourists evacuated the building in panic. The blaze was found on the fourth floor, inside Room 36, where flames and thick smoke were seen pouring out from a balcony area. Fire crews brought the situation under control after approximately 30 minutes, but the room sustained significant damage.
The owner of the unit, identified as Mr. Richard, 72, a US national, suffered burns to his back and body while attempting to escape the fire. Rescue workers provided first aid before urgently transferring him to hospital for treatment. The victim reportedly told authorities that he noticed smoke coming from the balcony and went to investigate, where he found a cooking gas canister had ignited and rapidly exploded, causing flames to spread into the room and injure him as he attempted to flee. Police are continuing investigations into the exact cause of the explosion. Initial assumptions point to a portable gas canister used for cooking, though officers said the precise trigger remains unclear. Forensic specialists are expected to examine the scene, while investigators will take further statements from the injured resident once his condition stabilizes.
