Survivors and Families Recount Deadly Bangkok Bar Fire That Killed 27

A devastating fire broke out overnight at the "Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao" bar in Bangkok, claiming the lives of at least 27 people and injuring over 70. Survivors and relatives of the victims shared harrowing testimonies revealing the chaos and helplessness during the blaze. Khuadon Pongphani, a waiter at the bar, described trying to use a fire extinguisher to reach his 21-year-old brother trapped inside but was stopped by thick smoke and intense heat. Another survivor, 41-year-old Osa Tadsri, escaped moments before the fire erupted but lost two friends in the incident. She recalled a rapid explosion and said there was no way out, describing the scene as surreal and shattering her sanity.

Among the grieving families was Jensuda Tenla, mother of a band singer performing that night. She tearfully pleaded for any information about her son, explaining he had turned to music to help support the family after failing to complete vocational school. Musician Sakon Miphlian, who lost his bandmate in the fire, called for stricter safety regulations, especially ensuring multiple emergency exits in entertainment venues to prevent such tragedies. Kaniyawan Bonruangthong, whose 23-year-old brother worked as a waiter at the bar for just a month, recounted the moment her family learned he had suffocated in the fire, expressing deep sorrow and stating the tragedy should never have happened.

Bangkok police are investigating the fire as a case of gross negligence. Preliminary findings indicate that emergency exits were blocked and the fire likely started due to an electrical short circuit in an air conditioner. The incident has sparked calls for improved safety measures in public venues to prevent future loss of life.