Bangkok bar fire death toll rises to 32

A devastating fire at the popular Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao bar in Bangkok on Sunday night has claimed the lives of 32 people and left 73 injured, with many in critical condition. The blaze spread rapidly through the crowded venue, and investigators are focusing on the cause and the high death toll.

Many of the victims were found near the restrooms, prompting questions about the venue's emergency exits. While officials stated there were two working exits, one was reportedly marked only for staff and not clearly designated for emergency use. "This means people didn't know it was an emergency exit," commented Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the scene. A rescuer suggested the exit might have been restricted to prevent customers from leaving without paying.

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This means people didn't know it was an emergency exit.

In response to the tragedy, the government has ordered immediate inspections of all entertainment establishments across the country. A building safety expert told AFP that the Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao lacked the required safety systems for the large crowds it hosted, especially for live music events. The incident has cast a grim spotlight on safety regulations at popular nightlife spots in Thailand.

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This could have been to prevent customers from leaving without paying.