Bangkok Pub fire death toll climbs to 32 as negligence probe intensifies

The blaze erupted late Sunday night at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok's Chatuchak district, rapidly engulfing the crowded

BANGKOK: The death toll from the devastating fire at a live music pub in Thailand’s capital has risen to 32 after two more victims succumbed to their injuries, while dozens of others remain hospitalized, authorities said on Wednesday.

The blaze erupted late Sunday night at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, rapidly engulfing the crowded venue after what witnesses described as a loud explosion followed by intense flames and thick smoke.

Emergency officials reported that 30 people are still receiving medical treatment, including 15 in intensive care, while 44 injured survivors have been discharged from hospitals.

Preliminary findings indicate that the fire was most likely triggered by an electrical short circuit in a ceiling-mounted air conditioning unit. Investigators are also examining whether negligence contributed to the tragedy, including the possibility that emergency exits were blocked or inaccessible during the incident.

The Thai government has pledged stricter enforcement of safety regulations for entertainment venues, including surprise inspections to ensure fire exits remain clear and buildings comply with safety standards. Officials noted that the pub had passed an inspection earlier this year.

Experts believe highly combustible materials used around the stage for acoustic purposes may have fueled the rapid spread of the fire, producing intense heat, toxic smoke, and fumes that trapped patrons inside the single-storey venue.

The tragedy has once again raised concerns over fire safety standards in Thailand’s entertainment industry, where previous deadly incidents have highlighted the dangers of overcrowding, flammable interior materials, and inadequate emergency escape routes.