UPDATE Police Probe Bar Fire at Lat Phrao Picture courtesy of Amarin Police have identified the suspected point where a deadly fire started at a popular entertainment venue in Bangkok, as investigators continue examining the cause of a blaze that killed 27 people and injured 63 others. The fire broke out near Soi Lat Phrao 1 in Chatuchak district, at 11.57pm on July 12. The single-storey concrete building, topped with a metal sheet roof, was extensively damaged, with around 164 square metres affected by the fire. Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelabutr said initial findings suggest the blaze may have been caused by negligence. He ordered police investigators and forensic officers to gather evidence, question witnesses and determine the exact cause before identifying those responsible and pursuing legal action. Pol Gen Thatchai said all agencies had been instructed to prioritise public safety while the criminal investigation continues. He added that investigators would carefully examine all available evidence before deciding on any charges. Pol Maj Gen Watee Asawutmangkurn, commander of the Police Forensic Science Division, said officers had already identified the suspected origin of the fire near the venue’s stage. A more detailed inspection was scheduled to start at 9am on July 13, with physics and chemistry specialists joining the investigation to establish the precise cause. The fire left 63 people injured, with casualties were transported to multiple hospitals across Bangkok, while the death toll stood at 27, including nine men and 18 women. The tragedy has also prompted scrutiny of the venue’s emergency exits after social media users shared a customer review posted last year claiming there was only one exit from the premises if an emergency occurred. The venue’s administrator had replied to that review at the time, stating: “There are four emergency exits, but they will only be opened in an emergency, and our staff can handle the situation.” Amarin reported that authorities are expected to compare those claims with physical evidence collected during the forensic examination as part of the wider investigation into the disaster. 13 July 2026
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