A community official is suspected to have committed suicide by burning charcoal in his office in Zhangmutou township of Dongguan, Guangdong province, on Monday, Southern Metropolis Daily reported.

Liu Weiqiang, 42, deputy Party chief of the Xuzhen community in Zhangmutou, was found lying on the floor of the toilet in his office at about 10 am on Wednesday. Doctors who arrived at the scene found Liu died of carbon monoxide poisoning. All the windows and door of the office were closed, and a pile of charcoal had been burned inside.

Police have ruled out the possibility of homicide in the case.

Why Liu, a native of the township, may have committed suicide is still being investigated. Liu was hardworking, dedicated to his job, and had a low-key attitude, according to the report.

Liu had been deputy Party chief and director of the Xuzhen community since 2008.

zhengcaixiong@chinadaily.com.cn