Deadly fire at Bangkok bar kills at least 32, injures 73

A devastating fire ripped through a Bangkok bar shortly after midnight, claiming the lives of at least 32 people and leaving 73 injured. Thai authorities have launched an investigation into the tragic incident, which occurred at the Na Ladprao bar.

Eyewitness accounts and video footage circulating online show flames engulfing the establishment, with thick smoke billowing from the front entrance as patrons panicked and fled. Investigators are examining the burnt-out structure, focusing on the severely damaged ceiling. According to Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, musicians at the scene reported that a circuit breaker near the stage smoked and caused a power outage before the explosion and rapid spread of smoke throughout the bar.

Experts are highlighting several factors that likely contributed to the high death toll, drawing parallels to previous entertainment venue fires. Professor Lee Young Ju of Kyungil University's Fire Safety Department suggested an electrical fault, possibly related to audio or lighting equipment, could have ignited the fire, which then quickly spread across the ceiling. Thai police chief Kittharath Punpetch indicated that investigators are examining the ceiling materials and electrical wiring, as well as checking for gas cylinders in the kitchen that might have exacerbated the blaze.

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Professor Huang Xin Yan of Hong Kong Polytechnic University noted that the scene showed flammable foam materials, a lack of sprinklers, and narrow exits, all of which could impede evacuation. He added that plastic decorations on the ceiling, combined with combustible soundproofing foam, may have fueled the rapid spread of the fire. Professor Kong Ha-song, a disaster prevention expert at Woosuk University, explained that fires in bars and nightclubs often result in high fatalities due to the dense crowds in confined spaces, making rapid evacuation difficult. He also pointed out that these venues often have limited exits, and patrons may be less aware of alternative routes, with loud music and alcohol potentially dulling their alertness during emergencies.

Thai police are investigating whether two rear exits were blocked or unusable. Most victims were found near a restroom, where an exit was obstructed by a table. Another exit near the kitchen had a damaged sign and a detached pull handle. Professor Jiang Li Ming from Hong Kong Polytechnic University added that bars typically lack large windows, and panic can lead to blocked exits during a fire. "Once the fire spreads rapidly, the high density of people and the quick spread of smoke can cause mass casualties," she stated.

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