Elderly Man Dies in Early Morning House Fire in Kengeri

Bengaluru : An 80-year-old man was charred to death in a suspected house fire in the early hours of Thursday near Mailasandra in Kengeri police station limits. The deceased has been identified as Mailarappa, who was living alone in a house close to his son’s residence near Thimmarayappa Circle.

According to police, the exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, though a short circuit is suspected. Officials from the fire and emergency services department rushed to the spot and doused the flames. However, Mailarappa was found burnt beyond recognition inside the house.

Mailarappa had four children who were living separately. After distributing his property among them, he had chosen to stay independently. Due to gangrene, his left leg had been amputated, leaving him with limited mobility.

Police said his grandchildren would visit him daily to check on his well-being and assist him with meals and medicines. On Wednesday night as well, his grandson reportedly visited him and provided dinner.

Mailarappa had complained of uneasiness and asked for medication, following which his grandson brought tablets and left the house. Around 2 am, neighbours noticed flames emerging from the house and alerted authorities.

By the time fire personnel brought the blaze under control, Mailarappa had succumbed to the fire. An unnatural death case has been registered, and further investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of the incident.

Speaking to reporters, Deputy Commissioner of Police (South West Division) Anitha Haddannavar said, “Mailarappa died in the late-night fire accident. He had distributed his property among his four children and was living alone.

There does not appear to be any family dispute. We are examining the exact cause of the fire. We are also investigating whether there was any external involvement behind the incident.”

Police said forensic experts will examine the scene to rule out foul play. Meanwhile, residents of the locality expressed shock over the tragic incident. Authorities have urged citizens, especially those living alone, to ensure electrical wiring and appliances are regularly checked to prevent such mishaps.

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