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This week's Bangkok bar fire killed 4 of 6 core members of the Totsakan house band
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- A flash fire at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao bar in Bangkok killed at least 33 people, including four of the six core members of the band Totsakan, who were performing when the blaze broke out.
- Most victims died from smoke inhalation, with investigations ongoing into the cause of the fire, including the flammability of the venue’s soundproofing foam and the accessibility of exits.
- The band’s lead female singer, Nahatai Sajjalert (“Breeze”), and keyboardist Preutthipong Pudmon (“Kwang”) were among those who perished, with another member, Thitiwat Kaewkanha (“Din”), dying later in hospital from severe burns.
- Survivors and families of victims have sought compensation and support, but some, like Kanticha Singkhon, expressed frustration over the insufficient initial compensation of 10,000 baht (~$300) and lack of contact from bar owners.
- Eyewitness accounts described chaotic evacuation conditions, including power outages and narrow exits, with some survivors disputing police reports about exit usage and the presence of fire alarms.
