27 dead and many injured in Bangkok pub fire

A devastating fire at a Bangkok pub has claimed the lives of 27 people and left 73 injured, with authorities suspecting a short circuit in a ceiling air conditioning unit as the likely cause. Initial investigations also point to blocked emergency exits as a critical factor in the high casualty count.

The blaze erupted shortly before midnight on Sunday at the "Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao" pub. Social media videos showed thick smoke billowing from the establishment, followed by a massive flame erupting from an entrance as panicked patrons fled. Many survivors suffered smoke inhalation, with one firefighter noting, "The smoke was everywhere."

Survivors reported that the fire ignited in the front stage area, which was reportedly covered in flammable foam for sound insulation. As flames spread rapidly, many guests fled towards the rear of the pub, seeking refuge near the toilets and kitchen, only to find their escape routes blocked. Numerous fatalities were discovered in these areas.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene and stated that there were no clear signs of emergency exits. His office released a video highlighting a door that appeared to have been an exit but was subsequently locked, possibly due to the owner's concerns about customers leaving without paying. The pub is located in a busy entertainment district in northern Bangkok, near the popular Chatuchak Market.

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The smoke was everywhere.