A 108 ambulance burst into flames in front of the Government Hospital, Champakulam, near here, on Wednesday evening.
Alappuzha Deputy Superintendent of Police (Dy.SP) P.V. Baby said that a patient inside the ambulance, who sustained minor burns, died on his way to a private hospital.
The deceased has been identified as Mohanan Nair, 66, of Nadubhagam.
‘‘Mohanan Nair, who had breathing problems, was taken to the outpatient unit of the government hospital by his relatives. However, doctors referred him to another hospital. He was then taken in an ambulance, and the nurse accompanying him tried to connect an oxygen cylinder. This resulted in a spark causing minor injuries to both of them. Although, Mohanan Nair was taken to a nearby private hospital in another vehicle, he died on the way,’’ Mr. Baby said.
Officials said the ambulance later burst into flames. The fire also damaged a few motor bikes, a car, one shop and an autorickshaw in the area.
Minor injuries
The nurse, Saifudeen, who suffered minor injuries, was given medical care at the Government Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha.
The ambulance driver Murukeshan escaped unhurt.
The police have launched a probe into the incident.
