BANGKOK — Thai authorities on Monday investigated the cause of a fire that tore through a crowded pub in Bangkok overnight, killing at least 27 people and injuring dozens, as police examined whether safety failures or negligence contributed to one of the country's deadliest entertainment venue disasters in recent years.
The blaze erupted shortly before midnight at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao venue in Bangkok's Chatuchak district. Officials said 27 people were confirmed dead and 73 others were injured, with many remaining hospitalized, including patients in critical condition.
Police said investigators were focusing on possible negligence, including reports that emergency exits may have been obstructed or inadequately marked, potentially preventing patrons from escaping as smoke rapidly filled the building. Authorities are also examining whether an electrical short circuit involving a ceiling-mounted air conditioning unit triggered the fire, although they stressed that the investigation remains preliminary.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene early Monday and said survivor accounts indicated many customers fled toward the rear of the venue, where numerous victims were later found in restroom areas.
"Most of the victims ran to the back of the building, into the bathroom, and there was no clear sign of a fire exit," Anutin told reporters.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said investigators would inspect the building's construction materials, fire protection systems and escape routes as part of a broader forensic examination. He said officials were also reviewing whether the venue complied with applicable safety regulations before the incident.
Video verified by Reuters showed thick black smoke pouring from the building before flames burst from an entrance as patrons fled. Rescue workers described heavy smoke and darkness inside the venue, conditions that complicated evacuation efforts and emergency response.
Authorities established a center to assist relatives seeking information about missing family members while forensic teams worked to identify several victims. Hospitals across Bangkok continued treating those injured, with officials monitoring patients suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation.
The disaster has renewed scrutiny of fire safety standards at Thailand's entertainment venues. Previous fatal nightclub fires, including the 2009 Santika Club blaze in Bangkok that killed 67 people, prompted tighter regulations, but investigators have repeatedly identified shortcomings in emergency preparedness and enforcement.
Police said the criminal investigation would continue alongside forensic examinations before authorities determine whether charges should be brought against those responsible for operating the venue.
