Fire Engulfs Six-Storey Commercial Building in Samut Sakhon, Two Confirmed Dead

Picture from responders.

A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of the morning of 12 February, consuming a six-storey commercial building in Bang Nam Chuet, Mueang Samut Sakhon district. The blaze, which followed two powerful explosions, spread rapidly, destroying five adjoining shophouses and claiming the lives of at least two people.

At approximately 05:00, residents in the area reported hearing two loud explosions before thick black smoke billowed from the building. The structure housed W Electronics Ltd., a company dealing in wholesale audio and video recording media. The fire quickly engulfed the premises and spread to a neighbouring diesel repair shop, Pattana Chai Diesel.

Firefighters from the Bang Nam Chuet Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and neighbouring municipalities responded swiftly, deploying over 20 fire engines to battle the intense flames. Despite their efforts, the fire proved difficult to contain and continued burning for hours.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as emergency responders attempted to reach those trapped inside. Initial reports confirmed that two people perished in the fire, with three others suffering injuries. Rescuers faced significant challenges due to the intense heat and collapsing structures.

The Governor of Samut Sakhon, Mr. Naris Niramaiwong, along with local officials, emergency responders, and disaster prevention teams, arrived at the scene to coordinate response efforts. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration also dispatched fire engines equipped with high-rise water capabilities and aerial ladders to assist.

In a dramatic turn of events, three firefighters received electric shocks while trying to access the upper floors using an aerial platform. Two of them regained consciousness after receiving emergency treatment, while the third was rushed to Ekachai Hospital in critical condition. Authorities later confirmed that resuscitation efforts had successfully restored his pulse.

By 09:00 fire crews had managed to prevent the flames from spreading to adjacent buildings, but the situation remained volatile. Officials warned residents to stay clear of the area due to the risk of structural collapse.

Authorities will working to determine the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. Early speculation suggests an electrical fault or a possible gas leak, but forensic teams will conduct a thorough examination once the site is deemed safe.

-- 2025-02-12