The majority of people killed in Bangkok’s devastating bar fire died from smoke inhalation, forensic police said after completing autopsies of all 33 victims.
The blaze swept through the popular Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao restaurant and bar in the Thai capital last Sunday night, quickly engulfing the venue.
Autopsies found that 27 victims died from carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning after inhaling smoke, said Wiroon Supasingsiripreecha, commander of the Institute of Forensic Medicine.
The gases are produced by fires and “when inhaled, block oxygen from reaching the blood, resulting in death”, he said yesterday.
“If inhaled in large quantities, they can cause death within four minutes.”
The remaining six victims died later in hospital from severe burn injuries, Wiroon said.
Authorities said the death toll yesterday remained at 33, with 77 people injured.
The bar owner was admitted to intensive care immediately after the fire, but it was not clear if he was still in hospital.
Senior police officer Siam Boonsom said on Thursday that investigators had found evidence the venue was using high-voltage electricity without approval, which could have been a factor in the fire.
In the wake of the blaze, police and Bangkok’s governing body said they would inspect 1,000 entertainment venues across the capital within one month.
Officials have so far ordered three bars to be temporarily closed for failing to meet safety standards and regulations.
A building safety expert said earlier that Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao appeared to have lacked the safety systems required for the large crowds and live music events it hosted. — AFP
