A devastating fire at a popular pub in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district has left at least 28 people dead and more than 60 others injured, making it Thailand’s deadliest nightlife fire in more than a decade.
The blaze broke out shortly before midnight at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, a live music venue located near the famous Chatuchak Market, where hundreds of patrons had gathered for an evening of entertainment.
Electrical short circuit suspected
According to Thai authorities, the fire spread rapidly after it reportedly started near the stage area. Preliminary investigations suggest the blaze may have been triggered by an electrical short circuit, possibly involving an air-conditioning unit or other electrical equipment near the performance stage.
Thick smoke quickly engulfed the venue, leaving many patrons trapped inside as they struggled to find the exits. Officials said at least 63 people were injured, with more than 20 remaining in critical condition. Many victims reportedly died from smoke inhalation after becoming trapped in enclosed areas, including the restrooms.
Witnesses described scenes of pure panic as concertgoers rushed towards the exits while flames spread across the ceiling. Investigators believe the ceiling was lined with highly flammable soundproofing materials and decorations, Reuters reported.
Investigations into possible venue negligence
Authorities are also investigating whether the pub violated fire safety regulations. Early findings indicate that some emergency exits may have been locked, obstructed, or poorly marked, significantly hampering evacuation efforts.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt confirmed that investigators are examining reports that beer crates and other objects blocked escape routes, while police are questioning the venue’s management over possible negligence.
With shockwaves felt across Thailand, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene and called for a thorough investigation into the disaster. The fire has also renewed scrutiny of safety standards at entertainment venues, drawing comparisons to previous nightclub disasters, including the Santika Club fire in 2009 and the Mountain B nightclub fire in 2022, both of which exposed severe shortcomings in fire prevention and emergency preparedness, according to Al Jazeera and the BBC.
As forensic teams continue examining the site, authorities are working to identify the victims, determine the exact cause of the blaze, and establish whether criminal charges will be filed against those responsible.
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