Massive fire at Bangkok pub kills 27, injures over 60; 22 critical

Mangalore Today News Network

Bangkok, July 13, 2026: A massive fire at a popular pub in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, has claimed at least 27 lives and left more than 60 others injured, with 22 of them in critical condition.

The blaze erupted at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district at around 11:57 pm local time on Sunday. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the site, said 27 bodies had been recovered and many others had been rushed to hospitals.

According to survivor accounts cited by the Prime Minister, the pub quickly filled with thick smoke after the fire broke out. Many patrons ran towards the back of the venue near the bathrooms, but there were no accessible fire escapes, trapping several people inside.

A total of 63 injured people have been admitted to hospitals, with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt confirming that 22 of them remain in critical condition.

Body-camera footage from emergency responders showed firefighters wearing oxygen masks searching through the charred remains of the pub for survivors. Several victims were found lying near the toilets, while rescue workers carried stretchers into the building.

The footage also revealed the fire-damaged main hall of the pub, where bar tables and stools remained visible amid the destruction.

Governor Chadchart said the pub had obtained the necessary permits and was equipped with fire exits, but the rapid spread of flames and thick smoke may have prevented many patrons from escaping.

Emergency teams remained at the scene through the early hours of Monday as bodies were prepared for transport and forensic experts gathered evidence to identify the victims.

A band member performing at the pub told local media that the lights briefly went out before smoke suddenly filled the room, followed by a powerful explosion and fire.

"After the explosion, I didn’t see anybody trying to run. Most of them were on the floor asking for help," he said, adding that he managed to escape from the stage despite the darkness, smoke and lack of oxygen.