Investigators on Monday began examining the wreckage of a deadly fire that swept through a bar and restaurant in Bangkok, killing at least 27 people and injuring more than 70 others.
The blaze, which occurred on Sunday night at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao on the outskirts of the Thai capital, is the country’s deadliest fire incident in nearly two decades.
Witnesses said flames spread rapidly through the venue, forcing customers to flee in panic as smoke and fire engulfed the building. Several victims were reportedly trapped inside as they tried to escape.
A musician who was performing at the venue when the fire started said the lights went out before smoke emerged from an electrical panel, followed by an explosion that caused people to rush towards the exit.
Relatives of victims gathered on Monday to identify their loved ones, while forensic officers searched through the damaged building for evidence.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the fire spread quickly to the ceiling and that smoke inhalation was likely the main cause of many deaths.
National Police Chief Kitrat Panphet said investigators would question the owner of the venue, who is currently receiving medical treatment, while examining possible safety violations, including blocked exits, electrical wiring, and fire escape arrangements.
Police said many victims were found in toilets, suggesting they may have become trapped while trying to escape after panic spread through the building.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said preliminary findings indicated possible failures in emergency escape arrangements, warning that those found responsible for breaking safety regulations would face consequences.
The incident is the deadliest fire in Thailand since the 2009 Santika nightclub fire in Bangkok, which killed 67 people and injured more than 200.
Survivors and witnesses described scenes of panic and desperation as emergency responders rushed injured victims to hospitals across the city.
The Thai government has promised support for affected families, but relatives of the victims said financial assistance could not replace the loved ones they lost.
Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the exact cause of the fire and whether negligence or safety violations contributed to the tragedy.
