Fire at Bangkok pub leaves 27 dead and 85 injured

Neena Mae Rayos, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
July 13, 2026

(Photo Courtesy: Fire & Rescue Thailand | Facebook)

BANGKOK – A deadly fire broke out at 11:57 p.m. on Sunday at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, leaving 27 people dead and 85 others injured.

Witnesses described a sudden explosion followed immediately by darkness and heavy fumes that made escape nearly impossible, with many survivors found choking on the floor.

Rescue teams arrived to find the venue choked with smoke, forcing firefighters to use oxygen masks and flashlights to search for survivors.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene, confirming the death toll at 27. Of the 85 injured, 22 remain in critical condition while 63 are being treated in hospitals.

Although Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stated the venue had proper permits and fire exits, he noted that the speed of the fire and density of the smoke likely prevented many from escaping safely.

“The fire was not that aggressive, but the smoke had engulfed 100% of the venue. The smoke was everywhere,” he said.

Emergency crews worked through the night to remove bodies and collect forensic evidence, while police have launched an official investigation into the cause.