A devastating fire swept through a popular bar in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, late Sunday night, leaving at least 27 people dead and dozens injured.
The blaze broke out near the stage of Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, located in the Chatuchak district, before rapidly spreading throughout the venue. Witnesses said the power went out as thick smoke and flames quickly filled the building, forcing customers to scramble for safety.
Emergency crews arrived shortly after midnight and managed to bring the fire under control within about 30 minutes. Firefighters later discovered many of the victims inside a restroom, where they had apparently sought shelter from the flames.
Authorities confirmed that 73 people were injured in the incident, including 25 who remain in critical condition. The victims include nine men and 18 women.
Among those affected was 24-year-old Kaew-udon Poungppany from Laos, who said he desperately tried to rescue his younger brother after grabbing a fire extinguisher. Despite his efforts, his 21-year-old brother did not survive.
Initial investigations suggest the fire may have started due to an electrical fault in an air conditioning unit. Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause, and forensic experts are continuing their investigation.
Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt said highly flammable ceiling decorations may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Authorities are also examining reports that the emergency exit may have been blocked, as several victims were found unconscious nearby.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene on Monday and pledged a full investigation. According to a musician who was performing when the fire broke out, panic spread quickly after what sounded like an explosion, causing people to rush toward the back of the building where many became trapped.
The building has been closed for 30 days while investigators examine the scene. The government also announced financial assistance for victims’ families and those receiving medical treatment.
The tragedy has renewed concerns about fire safety standards in Thailand. Although previous deadly fires have prompted calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, similar incidents continue to occur.
Thailand has experienced several major fire disasters in recent years, including a nightclub fire in Bangkok in 2009 that claimed 66 lives and a bar fire south of the capital in 2022 that killed 22 people.
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Bangkok Bar Fire Kills 27, Dozens Injured
A devastating fire swept through a popular bar in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, late Sunday night, leaving at least 27 people dead and dozens injured. The blaze broke out near the stage of Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, located in the Chatuchak district, before rapidly spreading throughout the venue. Witnesses said the power went out as thick smoke and flames quickly filled the building, forcing customers to scramble for safety. Emergency crews arrived shortly after midnight and managed to bring the fire under control within about 30 minutes. Firefighters later discovered many of the victims inside a restroom, where they had apparently sought shelter from the flames. Authorities confirmed that 73 people were injured in the incident, including 25 who remain in critical condition. The victims include nine men and 18 women. Among those affected was 24-year-old Kaew-udon Poungppany from Laos, […]
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