A deadly fire at a Bangkok bar has killed at least 27 people and injured dozens more, making it Thailand's deadliest such incident in over a decade.
The blaze erupted late Sunday evening at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar on the capital's outskirts. Officials reported smoke was likely the primary cause of death, with 63 people hospitalized and 22 in critical condition.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt confirmed that several victims were found near a fire exit that authorities believe may have been blocked. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the scene, stated the investigation revealed "blind spots" without a visible escape route and urged patience for the final report.
Emergency services arrived within five minutes of the alarm but faced intense heat and tables blocking the path inside. The fire was contained by early Monday morning.
This tragedy has renewed scrutiny on Thailand's health and safety regulations, following a similar nightclub fire in Chonburi province in 2022 that killed 25 people.