At least 27 people lost their lives and several others were injured after a fire broke out at a pub in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, during the early hours of Monday, prompting a large-scale emergency response and an official investigation into the cause of the blaze.
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According to Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, authorities received reports of the fire shortly after midnight at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok’s densely populated Chatuchak district. Emergency responders from multiple agencies rushed to the scene to extinguish the flames, rescue trapped patrons and provide medical assistance to the injured.
Officials said the fire was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes. Images and videos circulating online showed people fleeing the building as flames spread rapidly through the entrance, while firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
A preliminary assessment confirmed that 27 people were killed in the incident. Authorities said the victims included 18 women and nine men, although their identities have not yet been officially released. Another 18 people sustained injuries, with several reported to be in critical condition and receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.
Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said forensic experts are examining the site to determine what caused the fire. Initial witness accounts suggested the blaze may have started near an electrical circuit breaker located close to the venue’s stage before the building lost power, though officials stressed that the exact cause has not yet been confirmed.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene alongside senior disaster management officials and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. According to local reports, the prime minister said many of the fatalities were believed to have resulted from smoke inhalation rather than direct burn injuries.
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Authorities have pledged a thorough investigation into the tragedy, while emergency teams continue to assist victims and their families. The incident has renewed attention on fire safety standards and emergency preparedness in public entertainment venues across Thailand.