Blocked door, single exit: Eyewitnesses recount harrowing details of Bangkok pub fire that killed 27

PTC News Desk: At least 27 people were killed and 22 others were critically injured after a massive fire broke out at a bar in Bangkok, making it Thailand's deadliest bar fire in nearly two decades.

The fire reportedly started near the stage at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar and restaurant in Bangkok's Chatuchak district before spreading rapidly and filling the venue with thick smoke, according to eyewitnesses.

Videos shared on social media showed frightened customers running out through the main entrance as flames spread. Some people were seen with burn injuries while others struggled to escape through the smoke-filled building.

Victims found near blocked fire exit

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said several victims were found near a fire exit that investigators believe may have been blocked.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said a musician performing at the venue told him that smoke was first seen coming from a circuit breaker near the stage. Moments later, the electricity went out, an explosion was heard, and thick smoke quickly filled the bar.

"Most of the victims ran towards the back, into the toilets where there was no exit. They may have panicked because of the fire and smoke," the Prime Minister said.

An eyewitness, motorbike taxi driver Surin Jaiharn, said he saw flames burst out through the front entrance and helped around five people who escaped with severe burn injuries.

According to the venue's Facebook page, the bar has a stage, two bars, a kitchen, a capacity of more than 300 people and four fire exits. However, initial investigations suggest there were "blind spots" where no clear escape route was visible.

The Prime Minister said authorities are waiting for the final investigation report and warned that strict action would be taken if any safety laws were found to have been violated.