Bangkok Pub Fire: A massive fire ripped through a popular pub in Bangkok, Thailand, early Monday, killing at least 27 people and injuring 63 others, including 22 who remain in critical condition, according to Thai authorities. Rescue teams continued searching the site as officials warned that the casualty count could still change while victims are identified.
The blaze broke out shortly before midnight at Na Ladprao Pub also referred to as Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, one of the city’s busiest nightlife areas. Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control in about 35 minutes, but by then the building had suffered extensive damage.
Bangkok Pub Fire Death Toll Reaches 27
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene and confirmed that 27 people lost their lives in the tragedy. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said 63 people were taken to hospitals, with 22 in critical condition. Authorities are also working to identify several victims, as some were not carrying identification or were unconscious when rescued.
What Caused the Bangkok Pub Fire?
The exact cause of the blaze is still under investigation. However, preliminary findings suggest the fire may have started after smoke was seen coming from a circuit breaker near the stage, followed by a power outage and an explosion.
Prime Minister Anutin said a musician performing at the venue told him he noticed smoke from the electrical equipment moments before the lights went out. Emergency investigators and forensic experts are now examining the site to determine the precise cause of the disaster.
Bangkok Pub Fire: Witnesses Describe Explosion and Smoke-Filled Venue
According to witnesses, panic spread within seconds after the electricity failed. Singer Sukanya Wongwongwai said she rushed to the pub after hearing about the fire because several members of her band were performing there. She confirmed that one of her bandmates died, three others were hospitalised and another person remains unaccounted for. Describing what survivors told her, she said, “From what I heard from people who were inside, when the fire started everything went dark. The power was out and there was smoke everywhere, so they couldn’t locate other people.” Videos shared by first responders showed flames shooting out of the entrance while frightened patrons ran from the building as thick black smoke filled the air.
Bangkok Pub Fire: Why Were So Many Victims Found in the Restrooms?
Officials said many victims were discovered inside the restrooms at the rear of the pub, where they apparently ran while trying to escape the smoke and flames. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said many people were unable to reach the exits and instead sought refuge at the back of the building, where rescuers later recovered most of the bodies.
Reports Suggest Emergency Exits May Have Been Blocked
Initial reports indicate that the fire spread rapidly through the venue, filling the building with dense smoke within minutes. According to the reports, investigators are examining whether emergency exits were partially obstructed by beer crates and furniture, which may have made evacuation more difficult. Officials have not yet released their final findings.
Bangkok Pub Fire: Rescue Operations and Investigation Continue
Emergency crews continued inspecting the damaged building throughout Monday to ensure no victims remained trapped. Police and forensic teams are collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and examining the venue’s electrical system as part of the investigation. Authorities have not yet announced whether criminal charges will be filed, saying they will wait until the investigation is complete.
