Couple dies of asphyxia

A couple died of asphyxia as a fire broke out at Royals Guest House near the bus stand here today.

Smoke filled in the room due to which they died of suffocation. The identity of the couple has not been disclosed by the police.

According to information, the manager of the guest house observed smoke emanating from the hotel. After which, he, along with some others, raised the alarm and informed the fire brigade. Some of the occupants at the guest house came out while the couple was sleeping in the room.

It took 20 minutes to control the fire. When the door of the room where they were sleeping was broken, staff found them lying unconscious. The police have sealed the guest house. A short-circuit is cited to be the reason for the blaze.

The police have arrested the manager of the guest house. Documents of the establishment are also being checked.

The fire occured in the wee hours of Thursday. After dousing the blaze, when the staff found the couple unconscious, the victims were taken to a hospital where doctor declared them brought dead. The bodies have been sent for a post-mortem examination and relatives of the couple are informed about the incident.