By Reuters
At least 27 people were killed and scores more injured after a devastating fire tore through a pub in Bangkok late on Sunday, prompting Thai authorities to launch an investigation into possible negligence, including reports of blocked emergency exits.
The blaze engulfed the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub shortly before midnight. A video verified by Reuters showed thick smoke pouring from the building before flames suddenly erupted through one of the doorways as terrified patrons fled.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the scene, said many victims had attempted to escape through the back of the building but became trapped.
"Most of the victims ran to the back of the building, into the bathroom, and there was no clear sign of a fire exit," he said.
According to Bangkok's medical authorities, 27 people died while 73 others were injured. Of the injured, 25 remain in critical condition, while 32 have already been treated and discharged.
The pub is located at a busy intersection in northern Bangkok, close to shopping malls, cinemas, parks and the popular Chatuchak weekend market.
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Police said the owner of the pub was among those admitted to an intensive care unit, and investigators were working to question staff members.
National Police chief Kittiratt Phanphet said negligence was the leading line of inquiry.
"At this time, police have established negligence as the primary theory guiding their investigation," he told reporters.
Firefighters who responded to the emergency said many customers were trapped inside as flames spread rapidly. Some managed to escape through the front entrance but suffered severe burns, while others were found near the rear of the building.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as the fire spread. Sukanya Wongwongwai, who was searching for a missing friend outside the pub, said survivors told her they first noticed the smell of burning before flames appeared on the ceiling.
She said the ceiling, reportedly fitted with foam material for soundproofing, collapsed during the fire, injuring several people.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blaze and whether safety regulations were violated.
Source: Reuters
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