Swede killed in fire

CEBU, Philippines — A Swedish national was killed in an evening fire that struck a two-story residence located in Largo Compound, Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City, last Thursday, leaving an estimated ?1.68 million worth of damage to properties.

The victim was identified as Martin Ask, 68 years old.

The fire incident was first reported at 7:03 p.m. and was raised to the first alarm minutes later. The fire was declared under control at 7:31 p.m. and was declared fire out at 7:35 p.m.

Though it did not engulf nearby houses, it claimed the life of the victim, who was possibly trapped in the second floor when the incident happened. The fire also totally destroyed the house, leaving seven individuals affected.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Meanwhile, another house owned and occupied by a woman identified as Leonora Pacaldo was also partially burned in a separate fire incident yesterday.

It happened at 247 General Echavez, Barangay Lorega, Cebu City, at 11:43 a.m. yesterday. Eight minutes later, the fire was raised to the first alarm and was declared fire-out at 11:50 a.m.

There were three families affected, composed of nine individuals. The fire caused damage estimated at ?9,000, while the cause is still being investigated. — /BRP (FREEMAN)