A fire broke out late on the night of May 27 at a house in Delhi's Hauz Khas, resulting in the death of an 80-year-old retired IAS officer due to smoke inhalation, while his son sustained injuries and is receiving treatment, officials confirmed.
The deceased, Dhanender Kumar, had previously served as executive director at the World Bank.
Police received a call about the fire at Hauz Khas police station at approximately 11:18 pm. Fire services and police responded promptly, and the blaze was extinguished using two fire tenders.
Two individuals were taken to hospital following the incident. The retired IAS officer later died during treatment at the AIIMS Trauma Centre. His son remains under treatment and is reported to be out of danger.
Initial investigations indicate the fire may have started due to a blast in the indoor unit of an air conditioner. Five people, including family members and domestic help, were present in the house at the time.
A crime team has examined the site, and an electrical inspection is currently ongoing. Police have recorded statements from eyewitnesses and reported that no foul play is suspected at this stage.
Authorities stated that further investigation into the incident is continuing.