Bangkok bar fire kills 27, dozens injured

At least 27 people were killed and dozens more injured after a massive fire tore through a pub in Bangkok early Monday, authorities said, with investigators examining the cause of the deadly blaze.

The fire broke out around midnight at the Na Ladprao pub in northern Bangkok, sending thick black smoke through the building and triggering a frantic rush to escape. 

Videos shared by emergency responders showed flames engulfing the venue as panicked patrons fled.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the scene, confirmed the death toll and said an investigation had been launched.

According to Anutin, a musician performing at the pub reported seeing smoke rising from an electrical circuit breaker near the stage shortly before the power failed. 

Moments later, an explosion was heard and smoke rapidly spread throughout the venue.

Officials said many victims were found in restrooms at the rear of the building, where they had apparently sought refuge from the smoke.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said 63 people were taken to hospitals, including 22 who remained in critical condition. 

Authorities are working to identify victims, as many were unconscious or had no identification documents with them.

Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control in about 30 minutes. Images from the scene showed extensive fire damage, with the pub‍‍`s interior left blackened and destroyed.

Emergency officials also established a registration centre to help relatives searching for missing family members.

Singer Sukanya Wongwongwai said she rushed to the scene after learning about the fire because several members of her band had been performing at the pub. 

She said one band member died, three were hospitalised and another remained missing.

She said survivors told her the venue was plunged into darkness when the fire broke out, making it difficult for people to find exits as smoke rapidly filled the building.

Thailand has experienced several deadly nightclub and pub fires in recent years, including a blaze at a music venue in 2022 that killed 14 people and the 2009 Santika nightclub fire in Bangkok that claimed 66 lives.