Cat Suspected in Pattaya Condo Fire, Forcing Overnight Evacuation

Residents of a condominium in Pattaya, Chonburi province, were forced to evacuate overnight after a fire broke out early Monday morning. The blaze, which originated from a sixth-floor unit, caused significant damage but no injuries. The fire was brought under control after approximately two hours. Police were alerted to the fire at around 2:36 AM in Building D of the condominium in Bang Lamung district. Firefighters, disaster relief teams, and rescue volunteers responded as smoke spread throughout the building. Both Thai and foreign residents were evacuated while firefighters worked to contain the flames and prevent further spread. The owner of the affected room stated that she woke up to the smell of smoke and discovered flames in the kitchen area, near an electric stove. She managed to grab her phone and sought help from neighbors and condominium staff, but the fire spread rapidly. She suspects that her pet cat may have stepped on the stove's power switch, recalling a similar incident in the past. However, the cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed. Forensic officers from the Chonburi Regional Forensic Science Division 2 are scheduled to inspect the scene to determine the exact origin of the blaze. This incident highlights potential safety concerns in residential buildings in popular tourist destinations like Pattaya, particularly regarding fire prevention and the risks associated with unattended appliances and pets.