27 dead after fire engulfs bar in Bangkok; Most trapped in windowless bathrooms
A devastating fire at a music bar in Bangkok has claimed the lives of at least 27 people, while another 25 people remain hospitalized in critical condition after the late-night blaze rapidly spread through the building.
The fire broke out shortly before midnight on Sunday at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao music bar. Emergency crews responded to the scene, but it took firefighters about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. Authorities say the incident is the deadliest fire in Bangkok in the past 17 years.
According to Thai police, most of the victims were discovered inside windowless bathrooms located near one of the bar’s rear exits. Investigators believe many people may have rushed into the bathrooms while trying to escape the flames and thick smoke spreading through the main hall.
Thai National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch said investigators are examining why so many people were unable to reach safety. Early findings suggest that one rear exit had not been used during the emergency. Officials believe access to the exit may have been blocked by a table placed in the hallway to sell candy, while darkness and heavy smoke may also have made it difficult for people to find the escape route.
Authorities also found that another exit located near the kitchen may have been partially obstructed by shelving units and lockers. Police said there were signs indicating that at least some of the exit doors could have been locked at the time of the fire, although the investigation is still ongoing.
Images from the scene showed people running from the building as flames burst through the roof and thick black smoke filled the night sky. The force of the fire shattered the front windows of the single-story building, leaving broken glass and burned debris scattered across the sidewalk. Charred television sets, damaged speakers, and a burned electric guitar were among the items left behind after the blaze.
Investigators are now focusing on the ceiling area above the performance stage, where they found decorative materials that may be important to determining how the fire spread so quickly. Officials are also examining whether flammable materials were used in the building’s interior and whether the electrical wiring installed across the ceiling met safety requirements.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the exact cause of the fire and identify any safety violations that may have contributed to the high number of casualties. Officials are expected to continue inspecting the building’s construction, emergency exits, and electrical systems as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The tragic incident has left dozens of families mourning their loved ones and has raised serious questions about emergency preparedness and fire safety measures inside entertainment venues. Authorities have not yet announced the final findings of the investigation.
Sources
- Associated Press (AP)
- Royal Thai Police
- Bangkok Metropolitan Administration(BMA)
