Bangkok: Ice, the leader of the band Tosakan and a survivor of the devastating brewery fire, recounted his harrowing near-death experience during the tragic incident. He described how, within minutes, the fire and smoke spread rapidly throughout the venue, and mentioned the challenges faced due to obstructed exits and the absence of officials to guide evacuation efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, Ice shared that the chaos began with a sound resembling an electrical malfunction, followed by a power outage. Initially, the band and patrons assumed it was a routine power cut, a common occurrence during performances, with the expectation that power would soon return. However, the situation escalated quickly as the smell of burning plastic and soundproofing material filled the air, accompanied by smoke emanating from the electrical cutout box. Ice stated that the fire spread rapidly, forcing him to escape through an alternate door while he struggled to breathe amidst the thick smoke. Tragically, his girlfriend, who he attempted to reach, was found unconscious outside, and despite efforts to administer first aid and CPR, she did not survive.
Ice further explained that the back door, commonly used for selling goods with vendors stationed nearby, was partially obstructed, complicating evacuation during emergencies. The presence of a sign marked "Employees and Staff Only" added to the confusion, leaving many unsure about its use as a fire escape.
Ice highlighted the lack of official guidance during the emergency, as patrons fled in chaos without clear evacuation routes or visible fire escape signs. Witnesses reported that the fire originated from electrical breaker boxes, rapidly spreading smoke and flames throughout the venue. Notably, the store lacked a fire sprinkler system, exacerbating the situation.
Ice sustained several cuts and burns while escaping, and sought medical treatment alongside his bandmates, some of whom were also injured. The investigation into the fire's causes, fire exit layouts, and the venue's fire safety measures is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the specifics.
Of the 11 band members present, Din, a singer initially reported missing, has been located and is receiving treatment at Rajavithi Hospital. Updates on his condition are forthcoming. Regrettably, three band members have died, and two others remain injured as a result of the incident.