Photo courtesy of Anadolu
At least 27 people died and 63 others were injured after a fire swept through a crowded pub in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district shortly before midnight, Thai authorities said.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who inspected the scene, said many of the victims died from smoke inhalation after a fire reportedly started near a circuit breaker close to the stage, followed by a power outage and an explosion.
He said panic appeared to have driven many patrons toward the back of the establishment, where some became trapped in restrooms with no exit.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the flames quickly spread to the ceiling, while thick smoke was believed to have caused most of the fatalities.
Authorities were also looking into reports that an emergency exit had been obstructed. Fire officials said tables and chairs were found blocking access inside the venue.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control about two hours after it erupted.
Police have yet to determine the exact cause of the fire and said an investigation was ongoing.
Authorities continued assessing the incident as rescue and forensic teams examined the site.