A massive fire erupted at a bar on the outskirts of Bangkok on Sunday night, resulting in at least 27 deaths and dozens of injuries. The blaze at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao venue, which began around 11:00 pm, stands as the deadliest fire incident in Thailand in nearly two decades. Authorities confirmed that the situation was brought under control by approximately 2:00 am on Monday.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt reported that 63 people were hospitalized following the incident, with 22 of them currently in critical condition. Smoke inhalation is believed to be the primary cause of death. Forensic teams have begun examining the scene, where investigators noted that many victims were discovered near a fire exit that appeared to be blocked. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the site, noted that the venue was licensed as a restaurant and confirmed that authorities are reviewing its inspection history. He indicated that initial inquiries revealed “blind spots” regarding fire escape routes and vowed that there would be no leniency if legal violations are found.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos as flames engulfed the venue. Motorbike taxi driver Surin Jaiharn recounted seeing fire burst into the street and helping several individuals suffering from severe burns. Earlier, Anutin said musicians at the venue described “smoke from a circuit breaker near the stage followed by the power going out and an explosion.” Suriyachai Rawiwan, head of Bangkok’s disaster prevention department, said emergency services arrived within five minutes of being called but the fire had already spread. “When we went in to search, we found tables and seating blocking the way everywhere and the heat was intense,” Suriyachai said.
Authorities have identified 10 victims so far, including nine Thai nationals and one individual from Laos. The tragedy is the most significant fire-related loss of life in the country since the 2009 Santika club blaze, which claimed 67 lives. Concerns regarding safety standards in Thai nightlife venues have persisted for years, highlighted by a 2022 fire at the Mountain B nightclub in Chonburi that killed 25 people. Prime Minister Anutin has assured families of the victims that they will receive the best possible care as the investigation into the cause and safety lapses continues.
The venue has a stage, two bars and a kitchen, with a total capacity of more than 300 people, as well as four fire exits, according to a Facebook post promoting a live show this month.
Laotian tourist Kan Kutirat told AFP he "heard loud screaming from a lot of people inside, chaos happened".
