Couple in Tondo injured after house catches fire during heated argument
A couple in Tondo, Manila is currently hospitalized after suffering severe burns when their house caught fire during a heated argument at the Parola Compound, Barangay 20, at around 1 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 23.
Based on the initial police investigation, the 37-year-old man and his 51-year-old wife had been drinking alcohol prior to the incident and eventually became intoxicated, leading to a verbal altercation.
During the argument, the man allegedly poured gasoline or kerosene on the floor of their living room in an attempt to scare his wife.
Authorities said the fire accidentally ignited when the man lit a cigarette lighter he was holding.
The fire spread rapidly, leaving the couple unable to escape and causing severe burn injuries to various parts of their bodies.
Despite their injuries, the man was still able to bring himself and his wife to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.
The couple remains under medical care as authorities continue to investigate the incident, including the possible criminal liability of the man in connection with the fire.