Bangkok pub fire kills at least 27 people

A fire that swept through a popular entertainment venue in Bangkok early Monday morning has killed at least 27 people, with many victims found trapped in the building's restrooms. The blaze broke out at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in the city's Chatuchak district shortly before midnight on Sunday, July 12, and was brought under control by firefighters within approximately 35 minutes.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene and confirmed the death toll, stating that several injured people had been taken to hospital. He relayed an account from a musician who was performing at the venue, who reported seeing smoke emanating from a circuit breaker near the stage before the power failed. The musician then heard an explosion, after which thick smoke rapidly filled the premises.

Fire and rescue officials stated the initial alarm was received at 11:57 p.m. Sunday, with crews arriving minutes later to find the building engulfed in flames. Video footage from the scene showed intense fire shooting from the entrance as patrons fled, some with their clothing alight. Other images showed emergency responders performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on multiple victims outside...