Tragic Incident in West Delhi: Bus Helper Charred to Death as Parked Vehicle Catches Fire

New Delhi, February 9, 2026: In a harrowing incident that unfolded in the early hours of Monday, February 9, 2026, a 25-year-old bus helper was burnt alive after a private bus caught fire in West Delhi’s Vikas Puri area. The victim, identified as Sunil Sharma, a native of Jharkhand, was sleeping inside the vehicle when the blaze erupted, leaving him with no chance to escape.

Midnight Horror at Vikas Puri Fish Market

The tragedy occurred near the fish market adjoining the Krishi Apartment drain. According to officials from the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), a distress call was received at approximately 12:33 AM.

Witnesses in the vicinity reported seeing thick plumes of smoke followed by intense flames engulfing the vehicle. While patrolling police staff reached the spot within minutes and attempted to break into the bus, the fire had already spread too rapidly to allow for a safe rescue.

Firefighting and Recovery

Two fire tenders were dispatched to the scene and battled the inferno for over an hour. It was only after the flames were completely doused that the charred remains of Sunil Sharma were discovered inside the skeleton of the bus.

The vehicle, a Haryana-registered bus, was reportedly brand new—having been on the road for less than a month—and was being operated for the ride-sharing platform Uber. The owner of the bus, identified as Vijay Kumar (46), also has other buses parked in the same area where drivers and helpers typically spend the night.

Preliminary Investigation: A Simple Coil Turns Fatal

The Delhi Police have launched a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire. While forensic teams are still examining the wreckage, preliminary inquiries suggest a tragic and accidental cause.

• Incense Sticks/Mosquito Coils: Investigators found that Sunil Sharma frequently used incense sticks or mosquito coils inside the bus to ward off insects while he slept.
• No Foul Play: At this stage, authorities have ruled out any foul play. Statements from other drivers and helpers parked nearby indicate no suspicious activity prior to the fire.
• Legal Action: The police have initiated proceedings under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The body has been shifted to the Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.

Safety Concerns for Night Staff

This incident has once again highlighted the precarious living conditions of transport workers in the national capital. Many helpers and drivers are forced to sleep inside their vehicles in poorly ventilated or cramped spaces, often resorting to open flames for warmth or mosquito repellent, which significantly increases the risk of fire in the presence of upholstery and fuel.

As the investigation continues, authorities are also checking for any potential electrical short-circuits, given that the vehicle was nearly new.