Bangkok: Thai authorities have launched an investigation into a devastating fire that swept through a crowded pub in Bangkok late Sunday night, killing at least 27 people and injuring 63 others in one of the city’s deadliest nightlife tragedies in recent years.
The blaze erupted at the Na Ladprao Pub in northern Bangkok shortly after midnight, trapping patrons inside as thick smoke rapidly filled the building. Rescue workers said firefighters managed to bring the fire under control within about 30 minutes, but by then dozens of casualties had already been reported.
Speaking at the scene, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said preliminary findings suggest that smoke inhalation was the primary cause of most fatalities, as the fire spread rapidly through the venue and reached the ceiling within minutes. He confirmed that 27 people had died, while 63 others were taken to hospitals across the city, including 22 who remain in critical condition.
Officials said several victims were discovered near one of the emergency exits, raising concerns that escape routes may have been obstructed during the emergency. Authorities have not yet confirmed how many people were inside the pub when the fire broke out.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the scene after the incident, said the exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation. According to the Prime Minister, a musician performing at the venue reported seeing smoke emerging from a circuit breaker near the stage shortly before the electricity failed. Moments later, an explosion was heard, and thick smoke quickly engulfed the premises, forcing people to flee in panic.
The Prime Minister also said that many of the victims were found near the restrooms at the rear of the establishment, indicating that some people may have become trapped while attempting to escape.
Videos recorded by first responders and circulated on social media showed flames consuming the entrance of the pub as dense black smoke billowed into the night sky. Panic-stricken patrons were seen rushing out of the building while emergency personnel worked to rescue those trapped inside. Images taken after the fire was extinguished revealed extensive damage, including a heavily charred interior and destroyed furniture.
Singer Sukanya Wongwongwai, who was performing nearby at the time of the incident, said she rushed to the pub after learning about the fire because several members of her band were scheduled to perform there. She confirmed that one of her bandmates died in the blaze, three others were hospitalised, and another remains missing.
Quoting survivors, Wongwongwai said the venue was plunged into darkness after the electricity failed, making it difficult for people to locate exits as smoke rapidly spread throughout the building.
The tragedy has prompted renewed scrutiny of fire safety standards at entertainment venues in Thailand. Investigators are examining the cause of the fire and whether any violations of building or safety regulations contributed to the high number of casualties. Authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation progresses.
