Bangkok: The death toll from a fire at a Bangkok beerhouse has risen to 33 after six more victims succumbed to their injuries in hospital, authorities said. A total of 27 people died at the scene of the fire at the "Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao", while 6 others died later in hospital. Of the 77 injured, 29 remain hospitalized, including 17 in critical condition. Preliminary autopsies indicated that most victims died from smoke inhalation, while others suffered severe burns.
According to Thai News Agency, an initial investigation by the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) suggested that thick insulation foam sprayed above the ceiling may have fueled the blaze. Busakorn Saensuk, chair of the EIT's fire protection engineering division, said a three-inch layer of thermal insulation foam above the metal ceiling structure caught fire, causing heat and toxic gases to build up inside the building.
Witnesses reported smelling a pungent odor before oxygen from an opened door triggered a flashover, causing the accumulated gases to ignite into intense flames, Busakorn said. The EIT warned business operators about the fire risks associated with using insulation foam in hot climates without adequate electrical safety measures. The institute recommended that venues install standardized smoke ventilation systems to reduce heat accumulation, facilitate safer evacuations, and prevent structural collapse.