The death toll from Sunday’s Bangkok pub fire has risen to 33 with the passing of the singer who was performing when the blaze broke out at Rong Beer Na Ladprao in Chatuchak district.
Thitiwat “Din” Kaewkanha, 27, from the Tossakan band, died on Wednesday of severe injuries in Rajavithi Hospital. A female singer and a keyboard player with the band died instantly at the scene on Sunday, and the band’s drummer later succumbed to injury. Two other band members were injured.
The Chatuchak district office reported on Thursday that all 33 fatalities had been identified. It said 71 people had been confirmed as injured, including 14 seriously.
Authorities believe the fire was probably sparked by an electrical short circuit in a ceiling air conditioner. Combustible material that decorated the stage to improve acoustics instantly ignited to produce extreme heat and poisonous smoke, choking the trapped patrons.
Police are investigating the possibility of negligence and if emergency exits were obstructed.
A building safety expert said earlier that Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao lacked the safety systems required for the large crowds — it had a capacity of 700 — and live music events it hosted.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has pledged a sweeping review of Thailand’s entertainment venue laws and zoning regulations as a result of the fire tragedy.
The government has also ordered nationwide inspections of entertainment venues and public buildings to be completed within 30 days as part of a broader effort to strengthen public safety.
