Fuel Kiosk in North Padang Lawas Regency, North Sumatra Catches Fire, Owner Suffers 50% Burns

A fuel kiosk in Lingkungan I, Pasar Gunungtua Village, Padang Bolak Subdistrict, North Padang Lawas Regency, North Sumatra, caught fire on Sunday (31 May) morning, leaving owner Dedek Suhandri Harahap (43) with burns covering 50% of his body. Padang Bolak Police Chief AKP Abdul Hakim Harahap confirmed the incident to reporters, stating personnel were dispatched after public reports. Witnesses reported flames erupting during fuel refuelling operations, with one witness seeing flames from the kiosk. The victim attempted to rescue his parked car but sustained full-body burns. Local residents administered first aid before he was transferred to Aek Haruaya Hospital. Medical checks showed burns on both hands, legs, lower back, and buttocks, totaling 50% of his body surface. Three fire trucks extinguished the blaze, causing at least Rp35 million in material damage. Forensic analysis suggests an electrical short circuit as the cause, though investigations continue. ‘We are conducting in-depth inquiries, including witness interviews and evidence collection,’ said Abdul Hakim. Police and residents were at the scene on Sunday (31 May 2026). The fire, which started around 5:10 PM WIB, spread rapidly due to flammable materials such as cardboard, plastic, and scrap in the storage area.