Mercedes-Benz Vietnam Clarifies ‘Rat Responsible’ Remark in Singer’s Car Fire Controversy
Mercedes-Benz Vietnam has distanced itself from a controversial statement made by a dealership employee regarding a fire that destroyed singer Duy Manh’s luxury vehicle.
The controversy began when Duy Manh reported that his Mercedes-Benz S 450 L, purchased in 2020 for over VND 5 billion (US$192,570), caught fire while parked at an apartment complex in 2023. The engine was off and the car was locked at the time, requiring security staff to forcibly open the hood to extinguish the flames.
Initially, Mercedes-Benz stated that the fire appeared to have been caused by rodents, based on rat droppings and debris discovered inside the vehicle. However, a police investigation later concluded that the incident was the result of an electrical short circuit.
According to Duy Manh, when he questioned a dealership representative about who would be liable if the fire had spread to the building, the employee responded, “the rat.” Upset by the exchange, the singer pursued legal action after failed mediation attempts.
A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz told VnExpress that the statement made by the dealership employee was not authorized or representative of the company’s official stance. The company added that a joint inspection, including experts from Vietnam and abroad, the distributor, and the vehicle owner, had confirmed that the damage was not due to a technical defect but rather rodent activity.
The spokesperson noted that Mercedes-Benz could not disclose further information at this time since the case is in court.
Duy Manh, 50, hails from Hai Phong in northern Vietnam. He graduated from the HCMC Conservatory of Music with a degree in piano and began performing as a pianist and vocalist in 1998 before gaining fame in 2004 with several hit songs. He now composes, produces, and performs at bars and pubs.
