An explosion and fast-moving fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar in Bangkok early Monday killed at least 27 people and left dozens injured. It is Thailand's deadliest fire since 2009.
The blaze erupted around 11pm local time during a live performance. A band on stage reported smoke from an electrical circuit before an explosion.
"I felt the heat and the burn," said band member Athipat "Ice" Wijarn. "Everybody was running, squeezing into each other."
Members of emergency services work outside a pub where a deadly fire broke out, in Bangkok, Thailand, July 13, 2026. REUTERS/Chalinee Thirasupa
Officials say the fire started near the front stage and spread rapidly, forcing patrons to flee toward the back. Most victims were found trapped in windowless bathrooms near a rear exit.
Initial assessments point to an electrical short circuit in a ceiling air conditioner as the likely cause. Survivors described thick smoke and chaos.
"The smoke was everywhere," said firefighter Chakrit Khongkom. "Most of the survivors were choking on smoke."
Members of emergency personnel transfer the body of a deceased person at the site of a deadly fire at a pub in Bangkok, Thailand, July 13, 2026. REUTERS/Chalinee Thirasupa
Police are investigating whether fire exits were locked or blocked. The band Tosakan lost two members: singer Breeze and keyboardist Kwang. Drummer Bew is in critical condition.
A flower garland is left on a burnt keyboard in the aftermath of a fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar in Bangkok on Jul 13, 2026. (Photo: AFP/Lillian Suwanrumpha)
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has pledged aid and vowed accountability. The government will provide financial compensation to victims' families.