Bangkok Beer Hall Blaze: Families Demand Probe Over Allegedly Locked Emergency Exits | WPN World People News

Thailand's deadly fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao beer hall in Bangkok has claimed at least 32 lives and left more than 70 people injured. On July 13, grieving families gathered at the Institute of Forensic Medicine of the Royal Thai Police Hospital to identify and claim the bodies of their loved ones. The somber atmosphere was marked by grief and frustration, with several relatives saying that no amount of compensation could make up for their loss. They urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the disaster, including the building's structural safety, fire protection systems, and allegations that emergency exits had been locked.

The fire broke out at the popular beer hall on Lat Phrao Road, where around 300 patrons were inside at the time. Witnesses said electrical equipment near the stage began emitting smoke before exploding, triggering a power outage. Thick smoke engulfed the enclosed venue in less than a minute. Fire officials said nearly 90 percent of the victims died from smoke inhalation rather than burns, with many bodies found in restrooms and the rear kitchen area. Preliminary investigations suggest the blaze may have been caused by a short circuit in wiring connected to the ceiling-mounted air-conditioning system.

After inspecting the site, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the venue had emergency exits, but one passage was blocked by stacks of beer crates while another was obstructed by tables and chairs, severely hindering evacuation. Families of the victims and survivors have accused the establishment of poor emergency exit management and demanded that those responsible be held accountable. Police have listed gross negligence as a key focus of their investigation. The tragedy has also renewed concerns over fire safety standards at entertainment venues in Thailand, drawing comparisons to the 2009 New Year's Eve Santika Club fire in Bangkok, which claimed 66 lives.