Palakkad: In a devastating incident on Friday evening, four members of a family — including three young children — suffered burn injuries when their car caught fire and exploded in the Athicode area of Palakkad district.
The accident occurred around 5:30 p.m. when Elsy Martin, 40, a nurse at a private hospital, was preparing to head out with her children — Aleena (10), Alfin (6), and Amy (4). Just moments after Elsy started the car engine, the vehicle burst into flames, leaving the family trapped inside.
Nearby residents, alarmed by the blast, rushed in to rescue the occupants and douse the flames. All four were injured, with Alfin and Amy suffering critical burns — reportedly over 90% of their bodies. The two youngest children have been shifted to a private hospital in Ernakulam for advanced treatment, officials said.
Elsy, who had recently resumed work following the death of her husband Martin just six weeks ago, had returned home and was stepping out again with her children when the tragedy struck.
Initial investigations suggest the fire could have been caused by either a gas cylinder explosion inside the car or a short circuit, though the exact cause is still under examination.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, which is rallying around the family in support.