Bangkok pub fire kills 27, injures 63; victims trapped in toilets

A devastating fire at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao pub in Bangkok's Chatuchak district late Sunday night claimed at least 27 lives and left 63 others injured, with 22 in critical condition. The blaze broke out around midnight while the popular live music venue was packed with patrons.

Officials reported that many victims were found trapped near the pub's bathrooms, suggesting a panicked rush for an escape route that led to a dead end. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated, "Most of the victims ran to the back, to toilets with no exit. It could be because of panic because there was fire and smoke."

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Most of the victims ran to the back, to toilets with no exit. It could be because of panic because there was fire and smoke.

Survivors recounted how the venue filled with smoke within minutes, forcing people towards the rear of the pub. While the venue reportedly had necessary permits and fire exits, investigators are examining whether obstructions blocked these escape routes. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt noted that several victims were found near a fire exit, raising questions about its accessibility.

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The fire had already spread through the whole area, making it quite difficult for us to get in.

Firefighters arrived within five minutes but faced significant challenges entering the building due to the rapid spread of the fire and intense heat. Tables and seating inside reportedly obstructed their path. Officials believe smoke, rather than flames, was the primary cause of death, as it quickly engulfed the entire venue, leaving survivors choking.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway. This incident is among the deadliest fire tragedies to strike Bangkok in recent years, highlighting concerns about safety protocols in crowded entertainment venues.

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The fire was not that aggressive, but the smoke had engulfed 100% of the venue. The smoke was everywhere. Most of the survivors were choking on smoke.