Bangkok bar fire victims found trapped in windowless toilets; at least 28 dead

A devastating fire at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao music bar in Bangkok has claimed at least 28 lives, with authorities reporting that most victims were found trapped in windowless restrooms. The blaze, which erupted late Sunday, is the deadliest incident of its kind in the Thai capital in 17 years. In addition to the fatalities, 73 people sustained injuries, many in critical condition.

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Most of the deceased were found trapped in windowless restrooms, near one of the rear exits, where they presumably tried to escape the flames.

Investigators are meticulously examining the scene, which remained cordoned off as forensic teams searched for the fire's origin. Initial focus is on the area above the stage, where decorative materials were discovered. Police are exploring whether flammable materials were used internally and how electrical installations along the ceiling were set up.

National Police Chief Kitrat Punpech stated that most of the deceased were discovered in windowless restrooms near a rear exit. He suggested that access to this exit might have been obstructed by a table used for selling sweets in the hallway or by darkness. Another exit near the kitchen also appeared to have its access narrowed by shelves and cabinets. There are indications that some exit doors may have been locked.

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There are signs that some of the exit doors may have been locked.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was told by a musician performing at the bar that smoke was seen emanating from an electrical junction box near the stage before the power went out. This was followed by an explosion, and thick smoke rapidly filled the venue. Social media footage captured scenes of people fleeing as flames erupted from the ground-floor building, with black smoke billowing into the sky.

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The musician who performed at the bar told me that he saw smoke coming out of a junction box near the stage before the power went out. Then an explosion was heard, and thick smoke quickly filled the space.