Santika Club Owner Meets Police; Prepares To Compensate Victims

[george]

Fire-disaster club owner meets police; prepares to compensate victims

BANGKOK: -- As rescue workers pump out water from the basement of the fire-razed hit Santika Club, continuing to search for missing blaze victims or evidence which might be buried there, the club's major partner presented himself to the police for the first time to give his account on the tragic incident.

Santika Club major partner Wisuth Setsawat and owner Suriya Ritrabue are among those being questioned. Mr. Wisuth Setsawat, accompanied by his attorney, met deputy national police chief Pol. Gen. Jongrak Jutanont at Thong Lor police station on Sunday.

Police Forensic Science officers and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration workers pumped out water which had douses the blaze which destroyed club -- and 62 lives, so far -- on Bangkok's Ekkamai Road at about 12.30 am on New Year's Day.

They also hoped to collect possible bodies of the missing, as yet unretrieved from the rubble and waters beneath the ruins of the club, as well as evidence which could lead to a better understanding of just what happened in the incident, personal valuables or important documents of the dead victims which might still be left underground.

A number of relatives of the dead were present to conduct religious rites, paying respect to the victims, while many others hoped they could find their missing loved ones.

The death toll from the incident has reached 62 and nearly 250 partygoers were injured in the blaze.

By early Sunday, 73 injured persons remained hospitalised, 32 still being treated in the intensive care units (ICUs) of various hospitals. Eighteen of the injured are foreigners, all in intensive care.

In another development, the major partner of the Santika Club, Wisuth Setsawat, accompanied by his attorney, met deputy national police chief Pol. Gen. Jongrak Jutanont at Thong Lor police station.

Mr. Wisuth told journalists he is quite "depressed" and had not escaped anywhere as he was also injured and received treatment at a hospital. He said he had decided to meet police investigators to display his sincerity and ready to take responsibility for the tragic incident.

Initially, Mr. Wisuth said he had compensated relatives of 11 of the dead Bt20,000 each and had collected money totaling Bt2 million from 12 other partners of the club to be distributed to the next-of-kin of the fatalities and those survivors who were injured.

A centre will be set up Monday to accept donations aimed at assisting inferno victims, Mr. Wisuth said, insisting that the incident would leave his partners and him unable to claim insurance money because their coverage had expired four months ago and they did not renew it.

Immediately after interrogating Mr. Wisuth, Gen. Jongrak said the police would file charges against the managing director of White & Brothers Co., operator of the Santika Club, for recklessness which caused others to die and for allowing under 20-year-olds as patrons.

Police initially believed that the fire resulted from special effects used by the club or from fireworks brought inside the club by customers, Gen. Jongrak said.

The authorities will also question Santika Club owner Suriya Ritrabue identified in relation to White & Brothers Co. to investigate and file charges against him.

-- TNA 2009-02-04

[mrtoad]

So he reckons that by paying out 20,000bht and turning up at the Police styation he is showing sincerity. The fact of the matter is, regardless of what the cause of this fire Santika was an unsafe, unisured, unlicensed death trap.

I'm sure there ar a number of people who are a lot more depressed than him.

[aromsia]

All these guys are trying to dodge responsibility of course. But the police (not the courts - though possibly both) in my view are where a very serious investigation needs to happen. Whilst it sounds like the police are dilligently trying to keep a nightclub closed - their reasons for doing so aren't clear. If it was because of safety violations then full marks to them. But that's not the reasons given - they are trying to calim the club was in a non-zoned area, or other excuses - which the court dismissed and with some scorn for the police.

So it seems the police are trying to show the owners in 2004 and again in 2007 that they can make life difficult for them. Was this an attempt to extract a higher tea-money fee from the owners? These local hi-so owners, not to be out-'faced' by the cops, thought they had the last laugh on Thong Lor police when they get an injunction - a sort of middle finger to the cops who want the tea-money.

Then tragedy strikes. The cops take days to 'locate' and allegedly even talk to the owners. Think so? If this had been an on-going piss-fight between the hi-so young owners and the corrupt police is this the latest chapter in that fight to get the cash?

It's not off-topic, it's not political, but it's often the way Thailand works, correct?

[mrtoad]

All these guys are trying to dodge responsibility of course. But the police (not the courts - though possibly both) in my view are where a very serious investigation needs to happen. Whilst it sounds like the police are dilligently trying to keep a nightclub closed - their reasons for doing so aren't clear. If it was because of safety violations then full marks to them. But that's not the reasons given - they are trying to calim the club was in a non-zoned area, or other excuses - which the court dismissed and with some scorn for the police.

So it seems the police are trying to show the owners in 2004 and again in 2007 that they can make life difficult for them. Was this an attempt to extract a higher tea-money fee from the owners? These local hi-so owners, not to be out-'faced' by the cops, thought they had the last laugh on Thong Lor police when they get an injunction - a sort of middle finger to the cops who want the tea-money.

Then tragedy strikes. The cops take days to 'locate' and allegedly even talk to the owners. Think so? If this had been an on-going piss-fight between the hi-so young owners and the corrupt police is this the latest chapter in that fight to get the cash?

It's not off-topic, it's not political, but it's often the way Thailand works, correct?

I tend to agree with you on that.

[bino]

I think he is going to need a lot more than 2 mil baht.... 32 survivors in ICU are probably costing at least that amount every day.

2,000,000 / 32 = 62,500

[mrtoad]

I think he is going to need a lot more than 2 mil baht.... 32 survivors in ICU are probably costing at least that amount every day.

2,000,000 / 32 = 62,500

He'll probably declare himself bankrupt.

I did notice that there was a Western Name on the shareholders list.

[whiterussian]

i think the western surname is in fact a thai, with a 'cool' western surname, maybe a pop singer.

The govt should foot the bill for negligence in enforcement. All this talk of intent has to be rubbish.

What happened to vincentc's firework pics (fireworks coming from a neighbouring building), and the roof being ablaze as seen from outside..

Maybe this is why the Chinese govt are paying costs, to prevent exposure, to shody Chinese manufacturing standards. Maybe they are just compassionate.

This rooftop type blaze happened on a roof in CM a few months ago - the norths largest store/warehouse, spread down the air con in seconds.. and whoosh.

I hope the Thai people fight for enquiry after enquiry. How can they trust anyone in power these days.

The going rate is about 300,000+ for manslaughter/negligence up here in CM, judging from a peasant guy run over by a bangkok construction lorry last year.

Edited January 4, 2009 by whiterussian

[popeyeasia]

not sure if this has been posted already.....sorry in advance if it has:

List of the Injured and what hospitals admitted to:

Piyavate Hospital 9 persons

02 641-4499

1. Ms. Nattha Samosuengnern 24 yrs

2. Ms. Jittra Samosuengnern 26 yrs

3. Mr. Tassakorn Tangsomboon -

4. Ms. U Yong Hong 38 yrs

5. Mr. Mele Win Lee Jang Ho 25 yrs

6. Ms. Kanokwan Chancham -

7. K. Sani Tanhasuwan -

8. Mr. Malane Wang Ke Yo 45 yrs

9. Woman is Sujita Coma in ICU

ผู้ บาดเจ็บ 9 คน ที่นำส่งโรงพยาบาลปิยะเวช ได้แก่ 1.น.ส. ณัฐฐา สะโมสูงเนิน อายุ 24 ปี 2.น.ส. จิตตรา สะโมสูงเนิน อายุ 26 ปี 3.นายทัศกร แตงสมบูรณ์ ไม่ทราบอายุ 4.มิสยูยังฮ่อง อายุ 38 ปี 5.มิตเตอร์เมเลวินลี จังโฮ อายุ 25 ปี 6.น.ส. กนกวรรณ จันทร์แจ่ม ไม่ทราบอายุ 7.คุณสนิ ตัณหสุวรรณ ไม่ทราบอายุ 8.มิสเตอร์มาเลน วังเคโย อายุ 45 ปี ทั้งหมดบาดเจ็บเล็กน้อย และอีกคนเป็นหญิงไทยทราบเพียงชื่อสุจิตา อาการสาหัส รักษาตัวอยู่ในห้องไอซียู

Kuaynamtai Hospital : 9persons

(1) 02 381-2006-20 or (2) 02 399-4259-63

1. Mr. Salus 26 yrs

2. Mr. Matafumi 27 yrs.

3. Ms. Piyanuch Charoensane 27 yrs

4. Mr. Ron Crisberg 49 yrs.

5. Mr. Kama 23 yrs

6. Ms. Kanchana Narkkwan 25 yrs

7. Ms. Monrudee Neamraen 25 yrs

8. Ms. Kingkarn Prasarnwong 23 yrs

9. Ms Warawuth Narkphim 33 yrs.

โรง พยาบาลกล้วยน้ำไท 9 คน คือ 1. มิสเตอร์ ซาลุส อายุ 26 ปี 2.มิสเตอร์ มาตาฟูมิ อายุ 27 ปี 3.น.ส.ปิยนุช เจริญเสน อายุ 27 ปี 4.มิสเตอร์รอน คริสเบิกส์ อายุ 49 ปี 5. มิสเตอร์ คามา อายุ 23 ปี 6. น.ส.กาญจนา นาคขวัญ อ่ายุ 25 ปี 7.น.ส.มลฤดี เนียมเรียน อายุ 25 ปี 8.น.ส.กิ่งกาญ ประสานวงศ์ อายุ 23 ปี 9.น.ส.วราวุธ นาคพิมพ์ อายุ 33 ปี ทั้งหมดมีบาดแผลไฟไหม้

Ramkamhang Hospital :20 persons

02 374-0201

1. K. Krissada Phromsuwan

2. K. Chantika Pannorik

3. K. Pispibool Piboolhirunthammarong

4. K.Pitchada Phongkam

5. K. Duenphen Srisamrong

6. K. Teraphol Siriittawong

7. K. Sukumaporn Puengboonpanich

8. K. Kitamporn Na Tissri

9. K. Pravisa Srisuparb

10. K. Chantra Sakornsilp

11 K.Siriwan Jomjaipijit

12. K.Monrudee Kamwong

13. K.Panathep Insamran

14. K.Arunrung Arunprasert

15. K.Arunuthai Pichitpongnusorn

16. Woman nameless Coma in ICU

more 4 persons nameless

โรง พยาบาลรามคำแหง 20 คน ทราบชื่อคือ 1.คุณกฤษฎา พรหมสุวรรณ 2.คุณจันทิกา พันโนริค 3.คุณพิษพิบูลย์ พิบูลย์หิรัญธรรมรงค์ 4.คุณพิชดา พงษ์คำ 5.คุณเดือนเพ็ญ ศรีสำโรง 6.คุณธีรพล ศิริอิฐวงศ์ 7.คุณสุขุมาพร พึ่งบุญพาณิช 8.คุณกิตอำพร ณ ทิศรี 9. คุณประวิศา ศรีสุภาพ 10 คุณจันทรา สาครศิลป์ 11คุณศิริวรรณ จอมใจพิจิตร 12 คุณมลฤดี คำนนท์ 13 คุณพนาเทพ อินสำราญ 14 คุณอรุณรุ่ง อรุณประเสริฐ 15 คุณอรุโนทัย พิชิตพงษ์นุสรณ์ 16 หญิงไทยไม่ทราบชื่อ อาการสาหัส ส่วน 4 คน ยังไม่ทราบชื่อ

Samitijej Srinakarin Hospital 5 persons

0-2731-7000

1. K.Patcharin Zeckworra 30 yrs

2. K.Thumchanok Budderm 28 yrs

3. K.Werapat Yutisee 20 yrs

4. K. Kwanchira Sukdee 33 yrs

5. K.Khuntiya Aripha 26 yrs

โรง พยาบาลสมิติเวช ศรีนครินทร์ 5 คน 1.คุณพัชรินทร์ ซีควอร์รา อายุ 30 ปี 2. คุณธรรมชนก บุตรเดิม อายุ 28 ปี 3.คุณวีระพัฒน์ ยุติสี อายุ 20 ปี 4.คุณขวัญจิรา สุขดี อายุ 33 ปี 5.คุณขันติยาภา อาริภา อายุ 26 ปี

Samitijej Sukhumvit :10 persons nameless

02 711-8000

โรงพยาบาลสมิติเวช สุขุมวิท อีก 10 กว่าคน ยังไม่ทราบชื่อ

Police Hospital : 1 person

02-252 8111-25

K. Kitti Saetaer 34 yrs

โรงพยาบาลตำรวจ 1 คน นายกิตติ แซ่แต้ อายุ 34 ปี

Kasemrad Bangkae 2 persons

0-2910-1600-45 (Center)

1. Ms.Chuleeporn Phochai 21 yrs

2. Ms.Yatavee Phormvimanrat 27 yrs

โรงพยาบาลเกษมราษฎร์บางแค 2 คนคือ น.ส.ชุลีพร โพธิ์ชัย อายุ 21 ปี และ น.ส.ญาตาวี พรหมวิมานรัตน์ อายุ 27 ปี

Nakornthon Hospital : 1 person

0-2450-9999

1. Ms. Piyathida Phochai 29 yrs

โรงพยาบาลนครธน 1 คน น.ส.ปิยธิดา โพธิ์ชัย อายุ 29 ปี

Ratchaburana Hospital 1 person

02- 4270175-9

1. Ms Inthira Pengdee 24 yrs

โรงพยาบาลราษฎร์บูรณะ 1 คนคือ น.ส.อินทิรา เพ็งดี อายุ 24 ปี

Chulalongkorn Hospital 13 persons Coma 5 persons

02-2528181

1. Foreigner nameless

2. K. Siriluck Aksornwan

3. K. Phanomporn Kerdkeaw

4. (L.T.) Yuthsart Saenvien

5. K. Saisuri Maneesilp

6. K. Jutharat (Coma)

7. K.Aviroj Siriworachai

8. K.Pornthip Thongdee

9. K.Narinrat Ittithanarat

10. K.Sutthirak Samrejprasong

11. K.Saowanee Panyamai

12. K.Yingyos Damrongprapat

13. K.Naphat Pumeeram

โรง พยาบาลจุฬาลงกรณ์ 13 คน อาการสาหัส 5 คน ต้องใช้เครื่องช่วยหายใจ ประกอบด้วย 1.ชาวต่างชาติ ไม่ทราบชื่อ 2. คุณศิริลักษณ์ อักษรวรรณ 3. คุณพนมพร เกิดแก้ว 4.ว่าที่ ร้อยตรี ยุทธศาสตร์ แสนเวียน 5.คุณสายสุรี มณีศิลป์ 6.คุณจุฑารัตน์ ไม่ทราบสกุล อาการสาหัส 7.คุณอวิโรจน์ ศิริวรชัย 8.คุณพรทิพย์ ทองดี 9.คุณนรินทร์รัตน์ อิทธิธนะรัตน์ 10.คุณสุทธิรักษ์ สำเร็จประสงค์ อาการสาหัส 11 คุณเสาวณี ปัญญาใหญ่ 12.คุณยิ่งยศ ดำรงประพัฒน์ 13คุณนภัทร ภูมีราม

Rama Hospital : 6 persons

02-2460024

1. K.Supranee Tapao 23 yrs

2. K.Anurak Mahanpongsa 25 yrs

3. K.Athiwara Tasangsit 25 yrs

4. K.Tanasorn Dangsawat 34 yrs

5. K.Assawin Wangtaveephol 22 yrs

6. Mr, Yong Singver 21 yrs

โรง พยาบาลรามาธิบดี 6 คน 1.คุณสุปราณี ทาเภา อายุ 23 ปี 2.คุณอนุลักษณ์ มหันต์พงค์สา อายุ 25 ปี 3.คุณอธิวารา ตาสิทธิ์แสง อายุ 25 ปี 4.คุณธนศร แดงสวัสดิ์ อายุ 34 ปี 5. คุณอัศวิน วังทวีพล อายุ 22 ปี 6. มิสเตอร์ ยัง ซิงเวอร์ อายุ 21 ปี

Rajavithi Hospital : 5 Persons

02-246 0052

Tel: +66-2-354-8108-9 FAX: +66-2-2484808

1. Ms. Thippawan Ardrod 27 yrs

2. Ms. Wordanul Vejphakdeekij 24 yrs

3. Mr. Shisaru Tunoda 41 yrs

4. Mr. Kochi Kimura 28 yrs

5. Ms Yupwadee -

โรง พยาบาลราชวิถี 5 คน น.ส.ทิพรัตน์ อาจรอด อายุ 27 ปี 2.น.ส.วรดะนุล เวชภักดีกิจ อายุ 24 ปี 3.มิสเตอร์ ชิเซรุ ทุโนดะ อายุ 41 ปี 4.มิสเตอร์โคจิ กิมูระ อายุ 28 ปี 5.น.ส.ยุพวดี ไม่ทราบนามสกุล

Pharam 9 Hospital 13 persons

02-248-8020

1. Ms.Natcha Chairamluk

2. Mr. Wutthichai Wisetsiri

3. Mr. Ekachai Senakul

4. Ms. Benchawan Kitchapong

5. Ms. Nongluk Ruadchan

6. Ms. Hatthaya Chubkam

7. Ms. Jarunee Kumkongsae

8. Ms Jutharat Jitsarojitti

9. Mr. Chanachai Buranasukarn

10. Ms. Wanna Kormanee

11. Mr.Satthakhun Patthanasilp

12. Ms.Supat Sricham

13. Ms. Kanyarat Pulprasart

โรง พยาบาลพระรามเก้า 13 คน 1.น.ส.นัชชา ชัยรำลึก 2.นายวุฒิชัย วิเศษศิริ 3.นายเอกชาย เสนากุล 4.น.ส.เบญจวรรณ คิชพงษ์ 5.น.ส.นงลักษ์ รอดจันทร์ 6.น.ส.หัทยา ชุบคำ 7.น.ส.จารุณี คำคงซื่อ 8.น.ส.จุฑารัตน์ จิตสาโรจิตโต 9.นายชนาชัย บูรณะสุกาญจน์ 10.น.ส.วรรณภา ก่อมณี 11.นายสัตคุณ พัฒนาศิลป์ 12.น.ส.สุพัต ศรีแจ่ม 13.น.ส.กัญญารัตน์ พูลประสาท

Camillian Hospitol : 23 persons

(02) 185-1444 ต่อ 122 , 123

1. K.Boonkor Kumthong

2. K.Kiti Sanchai

3.K.Muijira Pholyo

4. K.Pitchaphol Chirayaarporn

5. K.Benchaporn Kimbaanrai

6.K.Chartchai Aimsiri

7. K.Stichan Phona

8. K.Chawin Mas-o-dee

9. K. K.Thapana Rassamee

10. K.Rattana Saelim

11.K.Tharin Laechai

12. K. Bencaharat Aimthayakorn

13. K.Nipaporn Somphol

14. K.Sumalee Prajuabsuk

15. K.Ornthep Sroison

16. K.Naruphat Thamcuk

17. K.Chantima Auekarn

18. K.Natthanan Chamnarn

19. K.Kulthida Cherdlampai

20. Mr. Stesen Hall

21. K. Sarunya Worvichakul

22. K.Meesak Keawlaeadd (Dead) He's from Pattalung

23 nameless Thai Man (Dead)

โรง พยาบาลคามิลเลี่ยน 23 คน 1.คุณบุญกอ ขำทอง 2.คุณกิติ สรรณชัย 3.คุณมุ่ยจิรา พลโยราช 4.คุณพิชพล จิริยะอาพร5.คุณเบญจพร ขิมบ้านไร่ 6.คุณชาติชาย อิ่มศิริ 7.คุณศรีจันทร์ โพธิ์นา 8.คุณชวิน มัสโอดี9.คุณรัตนา แซ่ลิ้ม 10.คุณฐาปนา รัศมี 11.คุณฐารินทร์ ลือชัยธรรม 12.คุณเบญจรัตน์ อิ่มธยากร 13.คุณนิภาพร สมพล 14.คุณสุมาลี ประจวบสุข 15.คุณอรเทพ สร้อยสน 16.คุณนฤพัฒน์ ธรรมคุก17.คุณจันธิมา เอื้อกาญ 18.คุณณัฐนันท์ ชำนาญกลาง 19.คุณกุลธิดา เชิดลำไพ 20.มิสเตอร์สตีเซ่น ฮอลล์ 21.คุณสรัญญา วรวิชากุล ส่วนอีก 2 คน เสียชีวิตในที่เกิดเหตุนำส่งโรงพยาบาล คือ คุณมีศักดิ์ แก้วละเอียด บ้านเลขที่ 46 หมู่3 ต.ทุ่งนารี อ.ป่าบอน จ.พัทลุง และอีกคนเป็นชายไทยไม่ทราบชื่อ

Panya Hospital : 8 persons

+66 (0) 2314 0726-9

1.Mr.Peerawat Chotecharoonphan 35 yrs

2. Ms. Manita Chalaum 25 yrs

3. Ms. Thanatcha Soontornchai 24 yrs

4. Ms. Jusmin Munler 29 yrs (Coma)

5. Ms Antalin - 33 yrs

6. Mr. Adam Munler 26 yrs

7. Mr. West John Munler 33 yrs

8. Ms. Natakorn Thimachai 23 yrs

โรง พยาบาลแพทย์ปัญญา 8 คน 1.นายพีระวัติ โชติจรูญพันธ์ อายุ 35 ปี 2. น.ส.มานิตา ชะละอำ อายุ 25 ปี 3.น.ส.ฐนัชชา สุนทรชัย อายุ 24 ปี 4.มิสจัสมิน มูนเลอร์ อายุ 29 ปี (ไอซียู) 5.มิสแอนตาลิน ไม่ทราบสกุล อายุ 33 ปี ไอซียู 6.มิสเตอร์ อดัม มูนเลอร์ 26 ปี 7.มิสเตอร์เวส จอนมูเลอร์ อายุ 33 ปี 8.น.ส.นตกรณ์ ธิมาชัย อายุ 23 ปี

Vejthanni Hospital 2 persons

โรงพยาบาลเวชธานี 2 คน ไม่สะดวกให้ชื่อ ญาติทราบเรื่องแล้ว

Paolo Memorial Hospital 2 persons

Tel: 0-2279-7000-9 Fax: 0-2279-4293

1. Ms. Kanyarat Puprasart 32 yrs (Coma)

2. Ms Jutharat Kijsarojchito 29 yrs

โรงพยาบาลเปาโลเมโมเรียล 2 คน 1.น.ส.กัญญารัตน์ ภู่ประสาท อายุ 32 ปี อาการสาหัส 2.น.ส.จุฑารัตน์ กิจสาโรจน์จิโต อายุ 29 ปี

Vibha-Ram Hospital 19 persons

02722-2500

1. Ms. Samirun Kaewnang

2. Mr Surasak Sitthikul

3. Ms. Malawan Paknoi

4. Ms Sun Anyo Park

5. Mr. Soonrap Pandey

6. Juthamas Sira

7. Mr. Atthaphol Mhaisri

8. Ms. Udomporn Katenoo

9. Mr. Vitsute Visutkrisri

10. Ms. Sirinthip Saekiw

11 Mr. Paspong Makrod

12. Mr.Surasak Srinhan

13. Ms. Benchawan Techavit

14. Mr.Channarong Mahachart

15. Ms. Piyanuch Buenglampu

16. Ms. Ahasaya Boonma

17. Jirawan Tovittayakarn

18. Ms.Patchanee Hama

19Mr. Apinan Phakdee

โรง พยาบาลวิภาราม 19 ราย 1. น.ส.สมิรัญ แก้วนาง 2.นายสุรศักดื สิทธิกุล 3.น.ส.มาลาวัน พักน้อย 4.มิสซัน อาโย พาค 5.มิสเตอร์ซูนราป ปานเด 6.จุทามาศ ศิรา 7.นายอัฐพล ไหมสีชาม 8.น.ส.อุดมพร เกตุหนู 9.นายวิสูตร วิสุทธิไกสีห์ 10.น.ส.ศิรินทิพย์ แซ่คิว 11.นายภาสพงศ์ มากรด 12.นายสุรศักดิ์ ศรีงาน 13.น.ส.เบญจวรรณ เตชะวิทย์ 14.นายชาญณรงค์ มหาชาต 15.น.ส.ปิยนุช บึงลำภู 16.น.ส.อหัสยา บุญมา 17.น.ส.จิรวรรณ โตวิทยาการ 18.น.ส.พัชนียา หามา 19.นายอภินันท์ ภักดี

Phamongkut Hospital 4 person

02 2461400-28

Dead 1 person and injuried 3 persons

โรงพยาบาลพระมงกุฎ 4 คน เสียชีวิตระหว่างนำส่ง 1 คน และบาดเจ็บอีก 3 คน

Khongton hospital 1 persons

02-319-2101-5

1. K.Manunya Boonsarn 47 yrs (Dead)

โรงพยาบาลคลองตัน นำส่ง 1 คน เสียชีวิตระหว่างทาง คือคุณมนันยา บุญศาล อายุ 47 ปี

[Scott]

This is the reason that lawsuits are for such large amounts of money and include absolutely everybody even remotely involved. Once they are thoroughly scared sh*tless, they start talking and eventually the truth comes out. For example, who let the insurance lapse? Was in the board of directors, were they informed, asked etc. If so, how much liability should they have for this.

Who gave permission to allow fireworks in the building? Was it the manager? The owner? Did the band/DJ's just do it without permission? Was anyone informed? If so, what liability should this hold. Also who should have the authority to authorize/deny this sort of thing and were they responsible by saying yes, nor negligent by saying nothing?

I mean, at the end of the day, we can blame the security guard for allowing things--but then he's not in charge of the place is he?

Once they decide who is culpable, then they can start figuring out who owes what to whom.

[DanaDeLuxe]

Now on yahoo news:

Thai police to charge club owner over deadly fire

By DENIS D. GRAY, Associated Press Writer Denis D. Gray, Associated Press Writer – 24 mins ago

BANGKOK, Thailand – The owner of a Thai nightclub where at least 62 revelers perished in a New Year's Eve fire will face criminal charges over the blaze, which was likely sparked by a countdown fireworks display on the stage of the jammed nightspot, police said Sunday. Wisuth Setsawat, a Thai-Chinese businessman, broke down in tears as he offered apologies to relatives of the victims Sunday before being questioned by police over the disaster at his Santika Club.

The fire raced through the two-story building with victims succumbing to the blaze, smoke inhalation and injuries from a stampede as hundreds of revelers tried to escape through a single main door.

Police Gen. Jongrak Jutanont said Sunday that Wisuth would be charged with carelessness leading to the deaths of others. He has already been charged with allowing in an underage customer, a 17-year-old high school student who was among the dead.

"More investigations will follow to pinpoint everyone who is responsible for this," the police officer told reporters, adding that more than 100 witnesses have already been interviewed.

Earlier, police said 13 people were to be questioned including Wisuth, managers of his White and Brothers Co., and staffers of a company hired to put on the countdown fireworks display on the stage of the Santika Club, which Jongrak said probably sparked the blaze.

The death toll rose by one to 62 on Sunday with 31 others in critical condition having sustained burns over 70 percent of their bodies, according to Narenthorn Emergency Center.

A total of 78 patients, including 47 in stable condition, were still being treated at Bangkok hospitals with 17 of them foreigners, the center said. One Singaporean was confirmed dead.

Police Col. Nithi Banthuwong, who is in charge of identifying the dead, said nine severely burned and disfigured bodies had yet to be identified.

Accompanied by his lawyer and friends, Wisuth reported to police Sunday afternoon after failing to show up at the station on Saturday. He denied fleeing, saying he has suffered from smoke inhalation after the fire started.

"I'd like to apologize to the relatives for the dead people and the injured," Wisuth said as he raised his palms in the traditional Thai prayer-like "wai" gesture. He broke into tears as he tried to continue talking to reporters.

According to his lawyer, the club's 31 business partners have decided to set up a fund to help those affected by the tragedy and some compensation had already been paid to relatives of 11 dead and injured victims.

The lawyer also confirmed that Santika has not renewed its fire insurance, which expired four months ago, and thus police could rule out any foul play related to insurance claims.

Mourners, including tourists and relatives of the Thai dead, have come to lay flowers at the parking area in front of the charred club. Buddhists among them lit incense sticks and chanted prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed.

Teenagers have also been coming to the club at night with cameras, hoping to capture ghosts in their photos. Belief in ghosts is widespread in Thailand, with some saying they can sometimes be seen on photos but not the naked eye.

[Scott]

Oh, and then, if they can, maybe file some type of suit against the police. How often did they show up? Did they do whatever it is they are supposed to do when they showed up? The wait staff likely know how often they were by.

I am sure someone will also spill the beans on how much money they paid and to whom to keep the place going.

[BigSnake]

So sad, hope the power that be wake-up and enforce the Building codes. No doubt after a short outcry all wil return to buisness as normal. Hear tell The Rights and Liberties Protection Department will pay Bt80,000 compensation to relatives of victims, what a shame, what an insult.

[taxexile]

the owners visit to the police has just been shown on the evening news.

he was accompanied by his lawyer , an oily chubby grotesque , a perfect caricature of a low life legal , who was shown laughing and enjoying a joke with the police chief.

the owner seemed genuinely emotional ; trembling , choking his words and fighting back tears as he apologised before breaking down and moving off with the lawyer.

the police chief who also made a statement seemed nervous and unsure of himself.

i wonder exactly how much he knows already.

Edited January 4, 2009 by taxexile

[eastlight]

So sad, hope the power that be wake-up and enforce the Building codes. No doubt after a short outcry all wil return to buisness as normal. Hear tell The Rights and Liberties Protection Department will pay Bt80,000 compensation to relatives of victims, what a shame, what an insult.

Don't know about you but just about any entertainment venue that I visit in this country resembles a total death trap to me!

[Dissolution]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

[bruceboy]

I am afraid 6 months from now this terrible tragedy will be forgotten.

[Goinghomesoon]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

Dissolution my condolences on your loss. I hope you are able to give your brother and friends a beautiful farewell.

[onethailand]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

Sincere condolences, Dissolution. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

[Alliecat]

We care. We do really care. I guess none of us know what to say. Be strong, so many of us have followed what you have said, and are trying to comprehend on your behalf. Please get assistance with this.

I know of a professional counselor who can help, please feel free to pm if you need to.

Can anyone clarify if the police are prepared to fund this type of on going counseling?

[skettios]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

Dissolution,

I've been watching this tread and praying for your brother and friends for the last few days. I'm so sorry.

I hope you can rest now that they've been found. I'm sure they are in a better place.

-Skettios

[bangkokrick]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

We all care and i personally pass on my condolences.

With sympathy,

Rick

[Dissolution]

The part that hurts the most is that his body was found along with 2 of the friends at the rear exit...

We believe the girl was hit by debris from the roof, and her bf tried to help, but either passed out, or he and my bro managed to get her to the rear exit before passing out. Unfortunately, when the rescue teams came, they only went in from the front... As for the last friend, apparently he had already managed to get to safety, but didn't see any of us, so went back in... He was found in the vicinity of the entrance, only a few meters from the 3...

*sigh*

Life truly is so fragile. I really wish I had gone in further to search for them... Now all of them are gone in 1 go, and I'm here all alone...

[triplegee]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

So sorry for your loss Dissolution. My thoughts and condolences are with you and your family and friends.

RIP.

[mrtoad]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

So sorry to hear that Dissolution, I'm sure that there are many here on the forum who really feel for you, your friends and your family.

Deepest symapthy,

Mr Toad

[nbg]

The part that hurts the most is that his body was found along with 2 of the friends at the rear exit...

We believe the girl was hit by debris from the roof, and her bf tried to help, but either passed out, or he and my bro managed to get her to the rear exit before passing out. Unfortunately, when the rescue teams came, they only went in from the front... As for the last friend, apparently he had already managed to get to safety, but didn't see any of us, so went back in... He was found in the vicinity of the entrance, only a few meters from the 3...

*sigh*

Life truly is so fragile. I really wish I had gone in further to search for them... Now all of them are gone in 1 go, and I'm here all alone...

My condolences to you and everyone else who lost loved ones. Be strong brothers and sisters!

[k1w1]

@dissolution

We all feel for you.

There are several serious legal questions that Thai Visa assoc could answer. I feel the most pressing is whether the Police or BMA will pay for counseling?

In NZ it would be standard procedure for the Police to provide trauma counseling assistance to the victims of such a tragedy

TV: Don't hold back on this one...

[STEELINOX]

I think he is going to need a lot more than 2 mil baht.... 32 survivors in ICU are probably costing at least that amount every day.

2,000,000 / 32 = 62,500

I think there are few more parties liable to pay: The very government body responsible for overseeing safety inspections- The Ministry of the Interior(???). Another party that should also be liable is the Thai Government itself; ultimately they oversee this ministry responsible for keeping its people safe to which it too has also failed. There's more than enough money to give these poor souls families, millions of Baht - I believe !

PS: My sincere condolences to you, Dissolution, God Bless...

Thanks,

Randy

Edited January 4, 2009 by STEELINOX

[Alliecat]

Yeah, but really, at this point, money isn't really anything, something productive such as counseling for the survivors (and I am not intending any disrespect/damage to the families here...) would be productive. Who of us can imagine what it was like? Christ, I cant even begin to.

Edited January 4, 2009 by Alliecat

[Hawkup2000]

Update, if anyone cares:

All 4 missing have been found amongst the dead.

You can call me at anytime, day or night. You got my number. Be strong.

/H

[ratcatcher]

The part that hurts the most is that his body was found along with 2 of the friends at the rear exit...

We believe the girl was hit by debris from the roof, and her bf tried to help, but either passed out, or he and my bro managed to get her to the rear exit before passing out. Unfortunately, when the rescue teams came, they only went in from the front... As for the last friend, apparently he had already managed to get to safety, but didn't see any of us, so went back in... He was found in the vicinity of the entrance, only a few meters from the 3...

*sigh*

Life truly is so fragile. I really wish I had gone in further to search for them... Now all of them are gone in 1 go, and I'm here all alone...

Christ, that's rough.

I am so sorry for your losses and try and be strong.

There are many good people on this board who are thinking of you and your troubles.

We will be following this story as it unfolds. Just pray that this one is taken to conclusion and not just buried and forgotten on some back page.

People must be made accountable. a human life is worth more than a couple of thousand dollars.