Bangkok Bar Fire Kills at Least 27, Many Trapped in Bathrooms

A fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar in Bangkok killed at least 27 people and injured dozens more early Monday morning, in Thailand's deadliest such incident since 2009 Source: AP News. Many victims were found trapped in windowless bathrooms at the rear of the venue, where they fled to escape the flames but were unable to exit Source: Ground News.

What happened

The fire broke out shortly before midnight on Sunday. A musician performing at the bar reported seeing smoke from a circuit breaker near the stage before the power went out, followed by an explosion Source: BBC. The blaze spread rapidly across the ceiling, which was lined with flammable decorative materials Source: AP News. Firefighters took about half an hour to bring the fire under control Source: CNN.

Investigation and safety concerns

Authorities are investigating whether blocked or obstructed exits contributed to the high death toll. Police chief Kittharath Punpetch said a table selling candy may have blocked one rear exit, and shelving units narrowed another Source: AP News. Survivors reported a lack of visible fire escapes Source: CNA. The venue was licensed as a restaurant, and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated there would be "no leniency if any laws have been broken" Source: Euronews. Experts noted the absence of sprinklers and use of combustible materials as possible factors Source: AP News.