At Least 27 Killed in Bangkok Bar Fire
At least 27 killed in Bangkok – A catastrophic fire at a Bangkok bar has claimed the lives of at least 27 people, according to statements from the country’s prime minister. Emergency responders were summoned shortly after midnight on Monday, arriving to find patrons escaping through the burning entrance of the venue.
Video footage shared on X revealed intense flames spilling from the bar’s front door as individuals fled, some in distress, others tumbling to the ground. At least two appeared to be engulfed in fire. The prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, provided updates at the scene, noting that 27 bodies had been retrieved and additional victims were hospitalized.
The fire’s origin remains under examination, though initial reports suggest it began at a cut-out switch. A musician present during the incident recounted the event to the PM:
“There was a fire at the cut-out switch, and after that things happened very quickly. There was blasting and everybody tried to flee from the smoke and flames.”
Victims and Casualties
Local reports indicate that the deceased included nine men and 18 women. Over 60 individuals are receiving medical treatment, with several still unaccounted for, as per Thai outlet Thairath.
Inside the bar, which is known locally as Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, the aftermath shows charred furniture, blackened walls, and a ceiling in disarray. The structure, situated in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, is a well-known restaurant and entertainment hub.
Firefighting Efforts and Initial Observations
Firefighters managed to control the blaze within half an hour, yet the damage was severe. Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt visited the site and highlighted the role of flammable interior decorations in accelerating the fire’s spread.
“There are initial reports that tables selling candy and other items blocked the exits,” he told the Daily News. “However, this matter requires a thorough and official investigation by forensic officers.”
Witnesses reported that the fire was first noticed at 23:30 local time, prompting a driver to rush to the scene and assist in rescuing two people by breaking windows. The area remains cordoned off, with body bags visible outside and a stark reminder of the tragedy’s scale.
