Deadly blaze at Bangkok pub leaves 27 dead and 22 critically injured
An explosive fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok has killed at least 27 people and left another 22 in critical condition, making it one of the deadliest such incidents in the popular tourist destination in recent years. Officials confirmed that 63 people were injured overall, according to Suriyachai Rawiwan, director of Bangkok's disaster administration.
Initial investigation points to electrical short circuit
The disaster administration's initial assessment suggests that an electrical short circuit in an air conditioner located in the ceiling caused the fire. The blaze is understood to have started around midnight at the front stage section of the pub and spread rapidly. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the site early Monday, told reporters that based on survivor accounts, the pub quickly filled with smoke, forcing many to flee toward the back near the bathrooms.
Emergency exits under scrutiny
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said investigators will examine whether any emergency exits may have been obstructed, potentially hindering evacuation. "We need to wait for forensic investigators to examine the scene more closely," he stated. The governor also noted that the pub owner was inside when the fire broke out and is receiving medical treatment in hospital, according to local media.
Victims and survivors recount horror
Distraught families streamed into the police morgue to identify bodies. Staff at the morgue told the Guardian that most victims were Thai nationals aged between 25 and 50. A Laotian tourist, Kan Kutirat, told Agence France-Presse he "heard loud screaming from a lot of people inside – chaos happened." He shared verified video showing patrons with shirts ablaze fleeing as flames surged out the door. The Thai band Tossakan was performing when the fire broke out; their lead singer was killed, and the drummer is in serious condition, according to a band member's social media post.
Witness accounts and rescue efforts
Usa Tadsree, 40, who had stepped outside to smoke, tried to re-enter but was blocked by smoke. Two of her friends died, and a third is critical. Body camera footage from emergency workers showed firefighters searching through darkened remains with torches, finding victims near the toilets. The video revealed the fire-damaged main room with bar tables and stools still visible. On Monday, locals wearing masks paused outside the smashed windows to pay respects. "I'm very sad, I'm sorry for everybody," said Nada Kunda.
Thailand's history of nightclub fires
Thailand has faced similar tragedies: in 2022, 14 died in a music pub fire in the east; in 2009, 66 were killed and over 200 injured in a New Year's Eve fire at Santika nightclub, sparked by indoor fireworks. The Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub, a popular live music venue in Chatuchak, is known for Thai performers and bands.
