SINGAPORE – The heart-wrenching tragedy that led to the deaths of Singaporean couple Mr. Seetoh Kwok Meng and his wife, Chang Kai En, in Italy is still under investigation following a suspected gas explosion that occurred late on December 21, 2024. Their ashes were recently returned to Singapore, where memorial services were held on April 7 and 8, allowing family and friends to pay their respects.

The couple had been living in a villa in Molazzana, located in the picturesque Lucca region of Tuscany, for about six years. Known for their vibrant personalities, they left a lasting impression on the local community. The investigation into the explosion is complex, involving technicians responsible for the installation and maintenance of the liquid petroleum gas system that powered the home's heating and kitchen.

Authorities are scrutinizing the circumstances around the explosion, which devastated their villa and reportedly stemmed from a malfunction in the gas system. Italian prosecutors have issued notices to the villa's former owners and the company that installed the boiler to assist in the inquiry. As many as 19 individuals are being investigated for potential negligence, manslaughter, and causing the collapse of the building, according to reports from Italian media outlet La Nazione.

Memorial services in Singapore were attended by close friends and relatives, providing an opportunity for the family to seek closure following a tragic few months. The couple's funeral, attended by family members and local dignitaries, took place in Lucca on March 28. Their memory has been honored by the mayor of Molazzana, Andrea Talani, who has taken steps to commemorate the couple, recognizing their contributions to the local community.

K.F. Seetoh, Mr. Seetoh Kwok Meng’s brother and founder of Makansutra, expressed his gratitude to Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sim Ann for their assistance in navigating the complicated legal processes associated with repatriating their remains. He described the ordeal of maneuvering through cross-border protocols as a "nightmare," but appreciated the local support that facilitated the repatriation.

Mr. K.F. Seetoh spent time connecting with the community in Lucca shortly before the memorial services, reliving cherished memories of his brother shared by local vendors. To honor his brother’s memory, he shared on social media a touching tribute—a jigsaw puzzle crafted by a local restaurant, featuring a photo of Mr. Seetoh Kwok Meng and Chang Kai En. As the investigation unfolds, it raises critical questions about safety regulations surrounding gas installations, potentially prompting a review of standards to prevent future tragedies.

Stay tuned as the story develops and authorities work diligently to get to the bottom of this tragic incident.