(CNA, Bangkok, 13th - International News Compilation) A massive flash fire erupted at a bar in Thailand's capital Bangkok late last night, resulting in 27 fatalities and dozens of injuries. Officials confirmed today that the emergency exit was blocked, preventing customers who inhaled thick smoke from escaping the fire scene in time.
A social media video verified by Reuters shows the moment of the incident: the bar engulfed in heavy smoke, with a sudden, intense fireball bursting horizontally from the entrance, as patrons scream and flee. The incident occurred around midnight local time, bridging yesterday and today.
Suriyachai Rawiwan, Director of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, stated that the incident occurred at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar, with 63 people injured, 22 of whom are in critical condition and have been hospitalized.
Preliminary assessment by disaster prevention authorities indicates the fire originated from an electrical short circuit in the air conditioning wiring within the ceiling.
Officials said that according to survivor accounts, the ignition point was suspected to be near the front stage area of the bar, and the fire spread rapidly, causing many people to rush toward the kitchen and restroom area at the back.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt told the media: 'There were two emergency exits on site. One was near the kitchen, but the corridor was piled with beer crates. The other exit was blocked by tables, hindering evacuation.'
He added: 'We still need to wait for forensic personnel to conduct further on-site inspections.' (Compiled by: Tsai Chia-min) 1150713
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- Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
- Category: Taiwan