Man Sets House on Fire After Argument Over DUI Fine in Xindian; Prosecutors Seek Detention

(Central News Agency, Taipei, 5th, reporter Lin Changshun) 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. The Xindian Police Precinct transferred Chen to the prosecutors office on charges of public danger. After questioning by the prosecutor, a motion for his detention was filed on the 5th.

The Xindian Precinct received a 110 report around 2 p.m. on the 4th, stating that a man had lost control of his emotions and set a fire at a residence on Section 2, Xinwu Road, Xindian District. Police immediately dispatched officers from the Quchi Police Station to the scene.

Police investigation revealed that the 51-year-old 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 a fire. Firefighters arrived and extinguished the blaze by 2:30 p.m.

When officers arrived to assist with extinguishing the fire, a police officer surnamed Su suffered smoke inhalation while using a fire extinguisher. Chen, Huang, and Officer Su were subsequently taken to Xindian Tzu Chi Hospital for treatment. All three were found to be in non-life-threatening condition.

After questioning, police transferred Chen to the Taipei District Prosecutors Office on charges of public danger. Following the prosecutor's interrogation, a motion for Chen's detention was filed on the morning of the 5th. (Editor: Zhang Mingkun) 1150605