Fatal fire at Bangkok pub leaves dozens dead

A fire broke out at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in the Chatuchak district of northern Bangkok around midnight on Sunday, July 12, 2026. The death toll from the blaze is reported as either 27 or 30, with approximately 63 to 75 people injured, many in critical condition. Preliminary investigations by authorities suggest a short circuit in a ceiling air conditioning unit may have triggered the fire. The rapid spread of flames was exacerbated by highly flammable materials used for stage decoration and soundproofing, which caused extreme heat and smoke. Witnesses and reports indicate that emergency exits may have been blocked, hindering evacuation efforts. The establishment had undergone a safety inspection in April. Thai authorities, including the Governor of Bangkok, have launched an investigation into the cause and are reviewing safety regulations and enforcement in the tourism sector.