The driver angrily yelled vulgarities at them after the near-collision.
He also said that those who call young Singaproeans the "strawberry generation" miss the full picture.
Prior to the confrontation, the landlord had frequently asked the tenant to pay rent before it was due.
It is believed that the boy may have come into contact with soil or water contaminated with roundworm eggs.
The passengers had a "narrow escape", said one of them.
The fire was reportedly put out in about 30 minutes.
A large crack was seen in the ceiling in photos posted online.
47% of Singapore's average monthly rainfall in April fell in northern Singapore over nearly two hours.
He will be running against Malaysia-born MP Sam Lim.
The offender was subdued by nearby passengers and handed over to the police.