The death toll from the devastating fire at a live music pub in Bangkok has risen to 32 after two more victims died from their injuries, Thai authorities said on Wednesday, as police continue investigating whether negligence contributed to the tragedy.
The blaze tore through the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in the capital’s Chatuchak district shortly before midnight on Sunday. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion before flames and thick smoke rapidly engulfed the single-storey venue.
According to the Erawan Emergency Medical Centre, 30 people remain hospitalised, including 15 in intensive care, while 44 others have been discharged.
Authorities believe the fire was most likely caused by an electrical short circuit in a ceiling-mounted air conditioner.
Police are examining whether negligence, including blocked emergency exits, played a role in the high casualty toll. The government has pledged to tighten safety regulations for entertainment venues by introducing random inspections to ensure fire exits remain accessible and buildings comply with safety standards.
Officials noted that the pub had undergone a safety inspection in April, and investigators are now reviewing whether all required fire safety measures had been properly implemented.