Bangkok Pub Fire Leaves 27 Dead, Scores Injured; Death Toll Feared to Rise
At least 27 people were killed and more than 60 others injured after a massive fire tore through a pub in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, shortly after midnight on Monday. Authorities fear the death toll could increase as several victims remain in critical condition.
The blaze broke out at the Na Ladprao pub in northern Bangkok and spread rapidly, trapping patrons inside before emergency crews managed to bring it under control.
Dozens Hospitalised, 22 in Critical Condition
According to Bangkok officials, 63 people were injured, with 22 battling for their lives in hospitals. Rescue teams rushed to the scene after receiving reports of the fire around midnight. Videos from the aftermath showed flames engulfing the entrance of the pub as thick black smoke filled the building, forcing people to flee in panic.
Circuit Breaker Smoke Followed by Explosion
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who inspected the site, said initial findings indicate the fire may have originated near the stage.
Musicians performing at the venue reportedly noticed smoke rising from a circuit breaker moments before the electricity went out. Witnesses said an explosion followed, after which the flames spread quickly across the establishment.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said highly flammable decorative materials on the ceiling accelerated the fire, while dense smoke rapidly filled the venue, leaving many with little chance to escape. Officials said many victims were discovered near the rear restrooms, suggesting they were trying to reach an exit. Most fatalities were caused by smoke inhalation, rather than burn injuries.
Investigation Underway
Firefighters brought the blaze under control after battling it for around 30 minutes. Images from the scene showed the pub completely gutted, with burnt interiors and extensive fire damage.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the deadly fire.
- Echoes of Past Tragedies
- The incident is one of Thailand’s deadliest entertainment venue fires in recent years.
In 2022, a fire at a music pub in Chon Buri province killed 14 people and injured dozens. Thailand’s worst nightclub disaster occurred in 2009, when a fire at Bangkok’s Santika Club claimed 66 lives and left more than 200 people injured, with investigators later attributing the blaze to indoor fireworks.
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