Lat phrao: A tragic fire at a brewery in Lat Phrao claimed the lives of 27 musicians and patrons, and injured many more, raising questions about the number of entrances, exits, and fire escapes within the establishment and its layout. From the venue layout graphic, you can see that the restaurant faces Ladprao Road. The stage is located above the stage when viewed from the plan (i.e., when viewed from the audience side, the stage has its back to Ladprao Road). The restaurant has a total of four doors, located at the four corners: two entrance/exit doors flanking the stage on the right and left sides (when viewed from the audience side), and two fire escape doors opposite the stage. The first fire escape door is behind the kitchen, and the other is near the restrooms.
According to Thai News Agency, eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke emanating from the circuit breaker near the stage, shortly after which the power went out throughout the restaurant. An explosion was then heard, and smoke filled the air, including the dining area. A fire then erupted, and within a few minutes, flames intensified, erupting violently from both front doors. Investigations also revealed obstructions in some fire escape routes, such as tables, decorations, and other items, which may have hindered escape during the incident. This may have been one of the reasons why a large number of bodies were found in the restroom, which was adjacent to the fire escape doors.
Initial reports indicate that approximately 12 bodies were found in the restroom. It is believed that when patrons saw the fire inside the club, they tried to find the fire escape but may not have seen the fire escape signs or there may have been something obstructing the doors, causing most to run into the restroom and die there.