The Bangkok pub fire killed at least 27 people and injured 63, as investigators examine blocked routes, electrical faults and safety failures.
The Bangkok pub fire killed at least 27 people and injured 63 others after flames swept through a crowded bar and live-music venue on the outskirts of the Thai capital.
Twenty-two people remained in critical condition on Monday, July 13, prompting fears that the number of deaths could rise.
The blaze broke out at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao Bar and Restaurant in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district at around 11 p.m. on Sunday.
Victims Fled Towards Toilets With No Exit
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene and said many customers apparently moved towards the rear after seeing fire and smoke near the front entrance.
However, several people entered toilet areas that did not provide another way out.
Credit:
Photo: Chanakarn Laosarakham/AFP
“Most of the victims ran to the back, to toilets with no exit,” the prime minister said. His comments suggested that panic and poor visibility may have driven people away from the main entrance.
Furniture Obstructed Bangkok Pub Fire Rescuers
Emergency crews arrived within five minutes of receiving the alarm, according to Suriyachai Rawiwan, head of Bangkok’s disaster prevention department.
However, the flames had already spread across the venue by the time they reached the building.
Suriyachai said rescuers encountered tables and seating that blocked routes through the premises. They also faced extreme heat inside.
Firefighters fought the blaze as it destroyed the interior and shattered several windows. Police said crews brought the fire under control at approximately 2 a.m. on Monday.
Credit: Jack Board/CNA
Witnesses Report Smoke Near Circuit Breaker
Authorities have not officially confirmed the cause of the Bangkok pub fire.
Musicians performing at the venue reportedly told investigators that they saw smoke coming from a circuit breaker near the stage. The power then failed before witnesses heard what they described as an explosion.
Investigators are considering whether an electrical fault caused the initial fire. They are also examining whether combustible material inside the ceiling accelerated its spread.
Credit: Photo: AP
Only 10 Victims Initially Identified
By Monday, authorities had identified only 10 of the 27 people who died.
Nine of the identified victims were Thai nationals, while one came from Laos. Forensic teams continued trying to identify the others as families searched for missing relatives.
Officials arranged support for the families of those killed and injured. Hospitals also continued treating survivors for burns, smoke inhalation and other serious injuries.
