A fire at a packed Bangkok bar killed at least 28 people and injured 71 others, with 25 in critical condition, after flames rapidly engulfed the venue late Sunday. The blaze at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao in the Chatuchak district trapped patrons, with witnesses describing a chaotic escape through smoke and explosions.
How the Bangkok bar fire unfolded
The fire began during a performance by Thai indie band Thotsakan, when smoke appeared behind the keyboardist. Band manager Ice Athipat Wijarn recalled fumbling with the door as flames spread, then being thrown outside by an explosion. Keyboardist Kwang, singer Breeze, and drummer Bew later died from their injuries, while a fifth member, Din, was found alive Monday evening.
Lead singer Tik Chaichana escaped unharmed after stepping away moments before the fire started. Videos showed him fleeing the burning bar in tears. "My phone and all my belongings burned... My mind is truly not okay right now," he wrote on Facebook.
Survivors describe trapped victims and blocked exits
Witnesses reported a "very fast boom" followed by thick smoke, with some seeing friends' bodies carried out. Usa Tadsree, 41, said her two companions died in the fire. Others, like Kaewudon Pongpanee, attempted to enter the bar to rescue trapped loved ones but were forced back by heat and debris.
Bangkok governor Chatchart Sittipunt noted that flammable ceiling decorations may have accelerated the blaze. Reports of unconscious victims near emergency exits suggest possible obstructions, though officials say a full investigation is required.
Calls for stricter fire safety in Bangkok nightlife
Locals described the bar as dark with a maze-like interior and poorly marked exits. Phatsara Khamloet, a recent visitor, said her first thought upon entering was, "If there's a fire, how would we even get out?" The tragedy has renewed demands for improved fire safety training and venue design, including wider exits and regular drills.
Firefighters controlled the blaze within 30 minutes, but the incident has left residents like Sirinya, who lives nearby, fearing a repeat. "This is the first time I've seen such a major fire," she said.
