Bangkok: The Commissioner General of Police, Police General Kittirat Phanphet, visited the Lat Phrao Brewery to investigate the cause of a devastating fire. The National Police Chief inspected the scene and initially hypothesized that the fire originated on the stage.
According to Thai News Agency, Police General Kittirat stated that an investigative team has been formed from Metropolitan Police Division 2 and Phaholyothin Police Station, in coordination with forensic police, district office personnel, and forensic pathologists. This team will examine various aspects of the case, including interviews with the business owner, partners, managers, employees, cooks, and contractors involved in the building's renovation.
An inspection revealed that the shop had two entrances/exits on Ladprao Road at the front and two more doors at the back. A table selling toffees was found blocking the door to the women's restroom, and preliminary findings suggest a large number of the deceased were found in the restrooms. It is presumed that those inside ran into the restrooms seeking a way out or water during the incident.
Regarding the doors, the investigation is ongoing to determine if they were locked, potentially constituting negligence. Another exit door connected the bar area to the kitchen, but it was obstructed by shelves and lockers. The arrangement of these items, along with building modifications, is being investigated for contributing to evacuation difficulties or rapid fire spread. The area above the music stage, heavily decorated, is also under scrutiny for potentially using flammable materials.
The National Police Chief emphasized investigating whether the incident constitutes "negligence." The Forensic Science Division is inspecting the ceiling area, wiring, electrical equipment, and construction modifications. They are coordinating with the district office to review construction permits and renovations since the building has undergone several changes. Reports of locked doors during the incident will be verified with rescue and firefighting personnel.
The legal proceedings involve gathering evidence and examining compliance with the Building Control Act and relevant permits. The potential criminal liability of involved parties for any negligence is also under consideration. Pol. Gen. Kittirat stressed the importance of safety measures and evacuation routes in businesses, indicating that the origin of the fire was likely above the music stage, with highly flammable materials differing from the dining area.
Regarding reports that some hospitals refused to admit critically ill patients, Police General Kittirat confirmed that the Police Hospital distributed all 63 injured individuals to various hospitals according to treatment capabilities, with no refusal of admission. The investigation focuses on "negligence," acknowledging recurring incidents despite continuous inspections. Business owners are urged to prioritize safety and not wait for inspections.
Rumors about the shop owner's connection to a police superintendent are being investigated, with Pol. Gen. Kittirat asserting no use of influence or special assistance in this serious case. The Bangkok Metropolitan Police is inspecting safety standards of entertainment venues to create a model for nationwide inspections.
Images of flames from the building are under investigation to determine if an explosion occurred, the number and size of gas cylinders, and whether any exploded. The Forensic Science Division is conducting a comprehensive investigation, including dismantling the stage and ceiling for inspecting the fire's source. The musicians' reports of frequent power outages will also be thoroughly investigated to gather facts for the case file.