Fire at pub on outskirts of Bangkok kills at least 27 people and injures dozens
A fire at a bar in Bangkok killed at least 27 people and injured dozens, making it the deadliest such incident in Thailand in nearly two decades. Authorities have launched an investigation.
A large fire broke out at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar and restaurant on the outskirts of Bangkok on Sunday evening, killing at least 27 people and injuring dozens, officials and witnesses reported. The blaze is the deadliest in Thailand since the 2009 Santika club fire in Bangkok that killed 67.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt told reporters at the scene that the fire spread quickly, reaching the ceiling, and that smoke was likely the main cause of death. He confirmed 27 fatalities and 63 hospitalizations, including 22 in critical condition, and said authorities had launched an investigation.
Many victims were found near a fire exit that officials believe may have been blocked. The venue had four fire exits, but initial inquiries revealed "blind spots" without a visible escape route.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the site, said the bar was licensed as a restaurant, and police were reviewing its inspection history. He assured victims and families they would receive the best care and warned of no leniency if laws were broken.
The fire started around 11:00 pm and was under control by 2:00 am Monday. Witnesses described loud screaming, chaos, and people fleeing with burning clothes. Motorbike taxi driver Surin Jaiharn helped about five people with severe burns.
Musicians at the venue reported smoke from a circuit breaker near the stage, followed by a power outage and an explosion. Most victims ran to the back, to toilets with no exit. Emergency services arrived within five minutes, but the fire had already spread, and tables and seating blocked escape routes.
By Monday, 10 victims had been identified: nine Thai nationals and one from Laos.
