A devastating fire tore through a popular pub in Bangkok during the early hours of Monday, claiming at least 27 lives and leaving several others injured, according to Thai authorities.
The blaze broke out at the Na Ladprao pub in the northern part of the Thai capital shortly after midnight. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a major fire, with thick smoke rapidly engulfing the premises and trapping patrons inside.
Videos circulating on social media showed flames consuming the building while panicked customers attempted to escape. Large clouds of black smoke could be seen pouring from the entrance as emergency crews worked to contain the situation.
Witness Describes Smoke Before Explosion
FEUER IN BANGKOK !!!
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In der Nacht ist in einem beliebten Pub im Stadtteil Ladprao, in der Nähe der Union Mall und der MRT-Station Phahonyothin, ein Feuer ausgebrochen. pic.twitter.com/jlkLovptKa
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene and confirmed the death toll had reached 27. Several injured victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, while authorities continued assessing the full extent of the tragedy.
Speaking to reporters, Anutin said a musician performing at the venue told officials that smoke was first spotted near an electrical circuit breaker close to the stage area. Moments later, the power reportedly failed before an explosion was heard.
According to preliminary accounts, thick smoke quickly spread throughout the pub, making escape difficult for many inside. Investigators are now working to determine the exact cause of the fire.
Many Victims Found Near Rear Of Venue
Authorities revealed that numerous victims were discovered in the restroom area located at the rear of the establishment. Rescue teams believe some patrons may have attempted to flee the smoke but became trapped as conditions deteriorated rapidly.
Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within approximately 30 minutes. Images taken after the incident showed extensive damage throughout the venue, including blackened walls, destroyed furniture and a heavily charred interior.
Personal belongings, including mobile phones belonging to victims, were recovered from the site as forensic teams began examining the scene for evidence.
Thailand No Stranger To Deadly Nightlife Fires
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was urgently checking with local authorities to determine whether any Australians were among those affected by the disaster.
Thailand has experienced several deadly entertainment venue fires over the years. In 2022, a fire at a music pub in the country’s eastern region killed 14 people and injured dozens more.
One of the nation’s worst nightclub disasters occurred on New Year’s Eve in 2009 when a blaze at Bangkok’s Santika nightclub claimed 66 lives and left more than 200 people injured. Investigators at the time believed indoor fireworks were responsible for igniting the fire.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the latest tragedy, with officials expected to examine electrical systems, safety measures and emergency exits as part of their inquiry.