Joo Seng fire: S’pore man, 44, says he started fire at parents house but didn't mean to harm anyone

The 44-year-old man accused of setting his parents’ flat in Joo Seng was charged with arson.

The accused, Liu Zhe Yuan, appeared in court on the morning of May 6 wearing black-rimmed glasses and a white polo shirt, Shin Min Daily News reported.

No intention to cause harm

In court, Liu acknowledged that he started the fire.

However, he did not intend to cause harm.

The 44-year-old appealed to the judge for permission to contact his parents or be granted bail so that he could settle matters at home.

Family finances

Liu claimed he managed his family’s finances.

The cash that was stored in the flat was destroyed in the fire.

He said he needed help to manage his parents' finances and contact relatives to care for them, who were in poor health.

Liu’s parents were also apparently unfamiliar with electronic payment systems.

He further said that his father lost S$1,000 to a scam in 2025.

Prosecution request

According to The Straits Times, prosecutors requested that Liu be remanded at the Institute of Mental Health for two weeks for a medical evaluation.

The judge denied Liu’s appeal for bail and instructed the investigating officer to notify relevant social service agencies if necessary.

He added that bail would only be reconsidered after assessments were completed.

The case was adjourned to May 20.

Charcoal

In court documents seen by Mothership, Liu allegedly committed mischief by fire on May 4 in his home at Block 14 Joo Seng Road at about 9:40 pm.

The documents stated that he apparently burned a pot of charcoal in the living room, knowing that it was likely he would cause the destruction of the home.

The fire engulfed the home.

It was occupied by Liu and his elderly parents, who escaped safely.

Liu was arrested for mischief by fire.

Eight people were conveyed to the hospital for smoke inhalation, while two firefighters were also hospitalised after feeling unwell.