Jakarta, ThedailyID — A massive fire tore through a bar and restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand, on Sunday night, July 12, killing 27 people and injuring 63 others, authorities said.
The blaze broke out at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, according to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. Among the injured, 22 people remain in critical condition.
“The fire spread very quickly and reached the ceiling. Smoke was likely the main cause of death,” Chadchart said, as quoted by AFP.
Videos circulating online showed terrified patrons running toward the exits as flames engulfed the entrance.
Local media reported that emergency workers placed body bags outside the venue while rescue teams rushed to treat survivors.
Authorities found several victims near an emergency exit. However, investigators believe an obstruction prevented many people from escaping the building.
“I heard loud screams from inside. It was complete chaos,” said Kan Kutirat, a tourist from Laos.
Kan said he was drinking alone around 10 p.m. when he noticed smoke rising near the stage. He also helped a woman escape before the fire spread.
“I’ve never experienced anything like this. The images are still stuck in my mind,” he said.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s National Police said firefighters brought the blaze under control at around 2 a.m. on Monday, July 13.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul later visited the scene. According to witness accounts, smoke first appeared near a circuit breaker close to the stage before a power outage and an explosion followed.
“Most victims ran toward the back and entered the restroom, where there was no exit,” Anutin said. “They likely panicked because of the fire and heavy smoke.”
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire.
