Bangkok Bar Fire Kills 28 People, Dozens Injured in Deadly Blaze
A devastating fire broke out at a popular bar in Bangkok, Thailand, late Sunday night, killing at least 28 people and injuring 71 others. The incident happened at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao in the Chatuchak district, where flames quickly spread through the crowded venue.
Officials said 25 injured people remain in critical condition, while others suffered moderate and minor injuries. The bar owner is also receiving intensive care after the tragic incident.
Fire Spreads Quickly Inside Bangkok Bar
The fire reportedly started near the stage area of the bar before spreading across the building. Witnesses said smoke filled the room within moments after the flames appeared, causing panic among customers.
Videos shared online showed people rushing toward the exit as flames surrounded the entrance. Some victims suffered burns while trying to escape from the building.
Firefighters reached the scene shortly after midnight and managed to control the blaze within around 30 minutes. However, many people could not escape in time.
Victims Found Inside Bathroom Area
Rescue teams discovered many of the victims inside the bathroom area of the bar. Police said several customers may have run there for safety after the lights went out during the fire.
Thailand’s national police chief Kitrat Panphet said many people became trapped because they could not see a clear way out in the darkness.
A 24 year old survivor from Laos described his desperate attempt to save his younger brother. He said he used a fire extinguisher near the door but could not move further because of the intense flames and smoke.
Investigation Begins Into Fire Cause
Initial reports from Bangkok’s disaster mitigation officials suggest that an electrical problem in an air conditioning unit may have caused the fire. However, authorities have not confirmed the exact reason yet.
Officials have promised a detailed investigation to identify what caused the tragedy and whether safety rules were properly followed at the venue.
Survivor Describes Terrifying Moments
One survivor said she escaped only because she had stepped outside for a cigarette moments before the fire started. She described hearing a loud explosion and seeing people struggle to escape through the smoke.
She also said she saw rescuers carrying out the body of her friend, who had been enjoying the evening inside the bar just minutes earlier.
The Thai prime minister visited the scene after the incident and spoke with officials and survivors. According to authorities, a musician performing at the venue said people immediately tried to flee when flames and smoke spread through the building.
Safety Concerns After Previous Incidents
Thailand has experienced similar fire tragedies in the past, raising concerns about building safety and emergency systems. Although authorities have announced improvements in fire safety standards, experts say enforcement remains a major challenge.
Officials are now investigating whether the bar followed required safety measures and whether emergency exits were available during the incident.
