Authorities are continuing to investigate the devastating fire at a Bangkok pub that has now claimed the lives of 30 people.
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The blaze broke out at Na Ladprao shortly before midnight on Sunday, July 13. Early reports suggested it may have started near a circuit breaker.
Survivors have alleged that some doors inside the venue were locked and that emergency exit signs were difficult to see.
Police also believe flammable decorative materials may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Bangkok Fire Investigation Reveals New Details
The latest reports indicate the death toll has risen to 30, while more than 70 people were injured.
Authorities have identified 27 of the victims, and 24 of those hospitalized remain in critical condition.
Police General Kittiratt Phanphet said on Monday there were signs of "a lack of caution and disregard for the safety of the patrons."
Emergency responders found many of the victims inside restrooms at the rear of the pub.
Investigators believe they fled in that direction while trying to escape but became trapped.
People who had previously visited the venue described it as a dark space with a "winding route" leading to the restrooms. They said that emergency exits were not clearly marked.
Investigators Examine Possible Safety Failures
Preliminary findings suggest a short circuit in an air conditioning unit sparked the fire. This quickly knocked out power throughout the building.
A witness said an explosion followed the power outage before thick smoke rapidly engulfed the venue.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control after about 30 minutes. Although the street-facing windows had already blown out and debris littered the sidewalk.
Busakorn Saensuk, a fire safety expert from the Engineering Institute of Thailand, said investigators found that the door near the restrooms was locked.
She also said furniture and other objects partially blocked the two main entrance doors.
Saensuk explained that many people instinctively ran away from the flames toward the back of the building, where the restrooms were located.
"But once they reached the back, they couldn't get out," she said.
"If the emergency signs were lit, people would have been able to see how the door was locked and may have been able to unlock it."
Authorities are expected to release further findings as the investigation into the deadly fire continues.
