Man found dead with severe burns outside Potong Pasir flat

SINGAPORE: A 44-year-old man was found dead early Wednesday (28 August) morning in the corridor of Block 107, Potong Pasir, with parts of his body severely burned.

The incident occurred around 6:40 AM and has left the community in shock.

As reported by Lianhe Zaobao, the deceased, identified as Lin Mingli (林明利), was a resident of the unit where the incident took place.

A neighbour, who heard groans and saw that Lin’s body was on fire, discovered him lying motionless in the corridor.

The quick-thinking neighbour immediately used a fire extinguisher to put out the flames and called for emergency services.

According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), they received a call about the incident at approximately 6:45 AM.

Paramedics who arrived at the scene pronounced Lin dead on the spot.

The deceased’s older brother, who works in the financial sector and requested anonymity, shared that he was notified by the police at around 9 AM.

He revealed that a friend had dropped Lin off at home around 6 AM in an intoxicated state.

The friend reportedly tried to wake their cousin, who lived in the same unit, by knocking on the door but received no response.

Unable to rouse anyone, the friend left Lin in the corridor.

Lin’s brother added that Lin had moved into the unit two years ago to live with their aunt and cousin. Their aunt had passed away three months ago.

He also noted that Lin had a habit of drinking and occasionally smoked.

It is believed that after his friend left, Lin may have accidentally set himself on fire while attempting to light a cigarette.

The flames were intense enough to cause parts of his body to be charred.

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed that after preliminary investigations, foul play has been ruled out.

However, the exact cause of death, whether from the fire or due to any pre-existing medical conditions, will be determined following further forensic examination.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.