Jaipur: A devastating tragedy unfolded in Rajasthan’s Ajmer district on Thursday morning when a moving SUV suddenly caught fire and turned into a blazing fireball, killing four members of the same family, including a local Congress leader and former Sarpanch.

The incident occurred in the Borada police station area, approximately 60 kilometres from Ajmer city, at around 5.30 a.m. Police and forensic teams have launched an investigation, with authorities examining all possible angles, including foul play.

Victims identified; investigation underway

The deceased have been identified as former Sarpanch and District Council member Ramsingh Chaudhary, his mother and former Sarpanch Pusi Devi, his wife and his niece Mahima.

Police said three victims died at the spot, while the fourth succumbed to injuries while being taken to the hospital. Senior police officers and an FSL team are examining evidence from the scene.

Possible short circuit, but all angles being probed

Preliminary information suggests that Pusi Devi had complained of chest pain early in the morning, and Ramsingh Chaudhary was taking her to hospital when the SUV caught fire.

Authorities are investigating whether a short circuit caused the blaze, though officials have stated that all possibilities, including foul play, are being examined.