Singapore – A 71-year-old man who lived alone was found dead inside his flat at Block 570 Choa Chu Kang Street 52 in Singapore on September 3, after neighbours grew alarmed by food deliveries left untouched at his door for days.
According to a news report, the man was discovered in his third-floor unit at around 1.10pm. Concerned residents alerted the police after noticing meals hanging outside his home and a foul smell coming from the area.
How Neighbours Raised the Alarm
The man kept largely to himself. A neighbour named Nari, who works as a domestic helper, said he rarely stepped out and relied on takeout meals and supermarket deliveries for his daily needs. His door was almost always shut, and she had not seen him for months.
“Sometimes we’d see takeout hanging outside and he’d open the door to get it shortly afterward,” Nari recalled.
The warning signs that something was wrong included:
- Food deliveries left uncollected outside his door since September 1
- A strong, unusual odour that grew stronger over two days
- No sign of the man coming out to retrieve his meals
“Ah ma and I usually sit at the table and chairs outside to cool off. These last two days, we noticed a strange smell when the wind blew. We didn’t think he had passed away,” Nari said, referring to her elderly employer.
What the Police Have Said
When the smell and the untouched deliveries became impossible to ignore, neighbours called the authorities. Officers later confirmed that a 71-year-old man was found motionless in the unit and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Based on preliminary findings, police do not suspect foul play. Investigations are ongoing.
A Reminder to Check on Those Who Live Alone
For many Filipinos working overseas, stories like this hit close to home. So many of us live far from family, and quiet routines can hide struggles that go unnoticed.
This sad discovery is a gentle nudge to look out for one another. A quick message, a knock on a neighbour’s door, or a regular check-in call can mean more than we realise, especially for those living on their own.
If you know someone abroad who keeps to themselves, reach out today. Small acts of care build stronger, safer communities for all of us.