A fire erupted at a live music bar in Bangkok late last Sunday, claiming at least 12 lives and leaving 25 people with severe injuries. The incident ranks as the city’s deadliest fire over the past 17 years. Local Bangkok officials said the blaze broke out shortly before midnight on Sunday, and firefighters took half an hour to bring the flames under control.
Worst Blaze in Bangkok in 17 Years
A fire erupted at a live music bar in Bangkok late last Sunday, claiming at least 12 lives and leaving 25 people with severe injuries. The incident ranks as the city’s deadliest fire over the past 17 years. Local Bangkok officials said the blaze broke out shortly before midnight on Sunday, and firefighters took half an hour to bring the flames under control.
Blocked, Locked Exits Trapped Patrons
National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch revealed most victims were found trapped inside a windowless restroom near the back exit, where they had fled to escape flames in the main hall. Multiple critical obstacles prevented evacuation:
- A candy vending table blocked the main rear exit passage, while dim lighting made the doorway nearly impossible to spot amid smoke and blackout.
- A second exit near the kitchen was completely obstructed by storage lockers.
- Evidence indicated several emergency exit doors were locked when the fire started.
Fire Triggered by Electrical Malfunction Near Stage
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters a performing musician witnessed smoke billowing from a circuit breaker beside the stage moments before a power cut and an explosion. Thick toxic smoke rapidly engulfed the entire venue after the blast.
Bangkok Mayor Chadchart Sittipunt confirmed smoke inhalation was the primary cause of death for nearly all victims. Authorities face major hurdles identifying the deceased, as most casualties carried no official identification documents. Investigations are ongoing to fully map the fire’s spread and hold the venue accountable for safety violations.
