Man Arson Over DUI Fine Dispute in New Taipei; Sent to Prosecutors

(Central News Agency reporter Huang Xusheng, New Taipei 4th) A 51-year-old man surnamed Chen in Xindian District, New Taipei City, allegedly set fire to his bedroom on the afternoon of the 4th after arguing with his wife over a DUI fine. When police and firefighters arrived to extinguish the blaze, one police officer suffered smoke inhalation. The officer, along with the couple, were all taken to the hospital with no life-threatening injuries. The case has been forwarded for investigation on charges of public endangerment.

The New Taipei City Xindian Police Precinct stated on the 4th that they received a 110 report around 2:00 PM regarding a man losing control and setting a fire at a residence on Section 2, Xinwu Road, Xindian District. Officers from the local Quchi Police Station were dispatched.

Police investigation revealed that the 51-year-old man, Chen, and his 48-year-old wife, surnamed Huang, had argued over a recent DUI fine. Chen is suspected of igniting items in the bedroom, causing the fire.

Upon arrival, officers assisted with firefighting. During this process, a police officer surnamed Su inhaled smoke while using a fire extinguisher, resulting in inhalation injuries. Chen, Huang, and Officer Su were subsequently taken to Xindian Tzu Chi Hospital for treatment. After examination, none of them had life-threatening injuries.

Police stated that firefighters arrived and extinguished the blaze by 2:30 PM. The exact cause of the fire and property damage will be investigated and appraised. Following questioning, Chen was transferred to the Taiwan Taipei District Prosecutors Office on suspicion of public endangerment. (Editor: Chen Qingfang) 1150604