Thai authorities say at least 27 people were killed in a fire at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, a popular restaurant and entertainment venue in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district. After the blaze was brought under control, pictures showed body bags outside the building and a large cordon around the area.
The interior was badly damaged. Furniture, walls, and the ceiling were blackened, and parts of the ceiling were peeling away. Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt said flammable decorations inside the venue appeared to have helped the fire spread quickly.
He also said there were early reports that tables selling candy and other goods may have blocked fire exits, although he stressed that this must be checked by forensic officers. The prime minister said he had asked a musician who was performing when the fire began about what happened, and the musician said the fire started at a cut-out switch and then spread very fast.