At Least 27 Dead in Fire at Bangkok Bar
Image Credit, EPA/Shutterstock
The Prime Minister of Thailand has confirmed that at least 27 people have died in a fire at a bar in Bangkok.
Authorities were immediately dispatched after receiving reports of the fire shortly after midnight on Sunday. People were seen fleeing through the main exit engulfed by flames.
Videos posted on the social media platform “X” show individuals trapped inside the burning bar, some screaming while others are seen stumbling as they try to escape. At least two people were seen caught in the flames.
Cause of the Fire
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters at the scene that 27 bodies have been recovered and the injured were transported to hospitals.
He said an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control within half an hour, but significant damage was already done.
Local media report that among the deceased are 9 men and 18 women. More than 60 people have been admitted to hospitals for treatment.
Thai police have indicated some individuals remain missing.
The Prime Minister spoke with a musician who was present during the fire.
“According to him, the fire started from a cut-out switch and spread very quickly. There was even an explosion, and everyone began fleeing from the smoke and flames.”
“Some people were unable to exit and moved to a restroom at the back of the building, where many bodies were found.”
The bar named “Rang Beer Na Lat Phrao” was located in Bangkok’s Chatuchak area, known for its popular restaurants and entertainment venues.
Scene Sealed Off
Image Credit, Reuters
Photos taken after the fire was contained show many body bags lined up in front of the bar, with security patrols in place around the area.
Inside the bar, furniture, walls, and ceiling are covered in thick black smoke stains.
The Governor of Bangkok inspected the scene and noted the highly flammable décor materials contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
He also mentioned that tables designed to hold chocolate candies and other items obstructed the emergency exits, though this requires forensic investigation.
At 11:30 p.m., a driver passing by noticed the fire and alerted the fire department.
The driver told Daily News he also helped two people escape by breaking a window.
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