BANGKOK, Thailand. A devastating fire tore through a packed live music pub in Bangkok late on Sunday night, killing at least 27 people and injuring dozens more in one of Thailand’s deadliest entertainment venue disasters in recent years.
The blaze broke out shortly before midnight at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, a popular nightlife venue near the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market. Firefighters brought the flames under control within around 30 minutes, but by then the building had been engulfed by thick smoke and intense heat.
What is known so far
Authorities have confirmed 27 people died in the fire, while at least 63 others were injured. Twenty two of those injured remain in critical condition and have been admitted to hospitals across Bangkok. Officials say many victims suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Initial reports indicate approximately 300 customers were inside the venue when the fire started during a live music performance. Survivors described smoke suddenly filling the room before a loud explosion was heard, leaving patrons with only seconds to escape.
Many victims found in toilets
Rescue workers made the grim discovery of numerous bodies inside toilets at the rear of the venue.
Officials believe many customers fled towards the back of the building after flames erupted near the front stage area. Overcome by thick smoke, many became trapped before reaching safety. Firefighters said visibility inside the building was almost zero because of the dense smoke.
Suspected cause under investigation
Investigators believe the fire may have started after an electrical short circuit in an air conditioning unit mounted in the ceiling. Witnesses reported seeing smoke near electrical equipment before the power failed, followed by an explosion and rapidly spreading flames.
Authorities stress the exact cause has not yet been confirmed and forensic investigators continue to examine the scene.
Focus on emergency exits
Investigators are also examining whether blocked escape routes contributed to the high death toll.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said one emergency exit was partially obstructed by beer crates, while another had tables blocking access. Reports also suggest a door which might have served as an emergency exit had been locked to stop customers leaving without paying. These claims form part of the ongoing investigation.
Officials are also assessing whether flammable soundproofing materials and interior decorations accelerated the spread of the fire through the building.
Prime Minister vows accountability
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene in the early hours following the tragedy and pledged a full investigation.
He said authorities would show no leniency if any laws or safety regulations were found to have been violated. Police are reviewing the venue’s operating licence, inspection history and compliance with fire safety regulations. The pub reportedly passed a fire safety inspection in April.
Survivors recount scenes of panic
Witnesses described a scene of chaos as smoke spread rapidly across the crowded venue.
One band member told local media the lights went out moments before an explosion, leaving customers struggling to find exits in complete darkness. Others described hearing screams as people collapsed from smoke inhalation while trying to escape.
Motorbike taxi drivers and passersby rushed to help victims outside, extinguishing flames on burning clothing and carrying the injured away from the entrance before emergency crews arrived.
Echoes of past nightclub disasters
The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of fire safety standards in Thailand’s entertainment industry.
It is the country’s deadliest nightclub or pub fire since the Santika Club fire on New Year’s Day in 2009, when 67 people were killed and 222 others were injured after a blaze swept through the Bangkok nightclub during New Year celebrations. Investigators found serious fire safety failings, including inadequate emergency exits, which led to criminal prosecutions and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of building and safety regulations.
Read more about the 2009 Santika Club fire
Authorities continue to identify victims and notify families while forensic teams examine the scene. The investigation remains ongoing, with further details expected in the coming days.
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