At Least 27 Killed, 22 Critically Injured in Bangkok Bar Fire

At least 27 people have died and 22 others are in critical condition after a devastating fire swept through a bar in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, late Sunday night.

The blaze broke out near the stage of Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, a bar in the city’s popular Chatuchak district, before spreading rapidly through the venue. Witnesses said the fire caused a power outage and quickly filled the building with thick smoke, leaving patrons struggling to escape.

Videos shared on social media captured scenes of panic as customers ran through flames toward the exit, with some suffering burns while trying to flee.

Firefighters responded shortly after midnight and managed to bring the fire under control within about 30 minutes. During search operations, they discovered many of the victims inside a bathroom, where they had apparently sought refuge from the flames and smoke.

More than 60 people were taken to hospital for treatment, with authorities confirming that 22 remain in critical condition.

Preliminary findings by Bangkok’s disaster mitigation department suggest the fire may have been triggered by an electrical fault involving an air-conditioning unit, although officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause. Investigations are ongoing.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene on Monday and said a musician performing at the venue reported hearing a loud blast before smoke and flames spread rapidly through the building.

According to the Prime Minister, many victims were unable to escape after retreating to the rear of the building and sheltering in a restroom.

The tragedy has renewed concerns about fire and electrical safety standards in Thailand, where similar incidents have occurred in the past despite repeated government pledges to strengthen safety enforcement.

Authorities have vowed to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the incident.