Thai authorities are investigating a deadly fire at a Bangkok bar late Sunday that killed at least 30 people and injured more than 70, with 24 in critical condition. Survivors reported locked doors and a lack of emergency exit signage.

Police General Kittiratt Phanphet said the fire started near the stage and spread rapidly due to flammable decorations, calling it "a lack of caution and disregard for the safety of the patrons."

Witnesses described a "winding route" to the bathroom and poorly marked exits. Fire safety expert Busakorn Saensuk found the door near the restrooms locked and the main exits partially blocked by furniture. "Once they reached the back, they couldn't get out," she said.

The stage was decorated with plastic flowers and the ceiling covered with combustible foam. The fire engulfed the stage within seconds. Thai indie band Thotsakan lost two members in the blaze.

Structural engineering professor Worsak Kanok Nukulchai said many likely died from inhaling toxic smoke, including carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, "even before getting burned."

The bar was registered as a "restaurant with live music" rather than an "entertainment venue," exempting it from fire-retardant material requirements. Bangkok authorities are now reviewing regulations.

The bar's owner previously owned another pub in Yasothon province that was destroyed by fire in December 2019, with no casualties as it occurred during the day.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk