A devastating fire at a music bar in Bangkok, Thailand, claimed more than 30 lives this week. Among the deceased were four core members of the Totsakan band, which was performing when the fire erupted. This tragedy has been a major focus in Thai media, with citizens expressing sadness and frustration, and calling for compensation.
Chanyanuch Pudmon, sister of the band’s late keyboard player Preutthipong Pudmon, conveyed sentiments her brother would likely share, saying he would prefer people remember him smiling on stage rather than mourning his current condition. Her statement was made as family members collected his remains from Bangkok’s Institute of Forensic Science.
According to Erawan emergency services, the fire started Sunday night and resulted in at least 33 fatalities and numerous injuries. Of the injured, 17 remain hospitalized in critical condition. Wiroon Supasingsiripreecha, head of the forensic institute, reported that most deaths were due to smoke inhalation, though some resulted from burn injuries.
Investigating the Cause
The investigation seeks to determine the fire’s origin at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao bar in northern Bangkok. Authorities are examining whether the venue used flammable soundproofing foam in the ceiling, if exits were accessible and functional, and if the venue adhered to legal regulations.
Totsakan, a popular house band at the bar, performed lively roots music every Sunday. Witnesses have said they noticed sparks from a circuit breaker, which experts suspect ignited the blaze across the ceiling, potentially covered in flammable material. Patrons fled through narrow exits amid total darkness and chaos.
Bands and Lives Lost
The band’s leader and singer, Atipat Wijan, known as “Ice,” shared his heartbreak after losing his girlfriend and bandmate, lead singer Nahatai Sajjalert, nicknamed “Breeze.” Despite his efforts to aid in her resuscitation, she could not be revived. Her body showed no signs of burns, appearing undisturbed as if she were at peace.
A misunderstanding initially reported keyboardist Preutthipong Pudmon as hospitalized; however, he never left the bar. Drummer Nattapat Thamnita, or “Biw,” was critically injured but did not survive. Another band member, Thitiwat Kaewkanha, known as “Din,” died in the hospital on Wednesday following burns covering most of his body.
Seeking Justice and Compensation
Relatives and survivors visited a police station on Wednesday seeking compensation and to share their accounts. Natthaphong Lakhorn, who was present during the fire, described the scene’s chaos and his escape. He recounted fleeing through a back door aided by a security guard with a flashlight, refuting police claims of an unused exit. Natthaphong intends to pursue compensation for his injuries.
Kanticha Singkhon, another affected individual, sought her deceased mother’s belongings. She now assumes responsibility for her younger brother. Kanticha expressed that the bar owners should proactively contact victims’ families for compensation as many victims traveled from distant areas.
A legal representative for the bar owners stated that an initial compensation of 10,000 baht (around $300) would be provided. Kanticha criticized this amount, stating it was insufficient for funeral expenses, forcing her to secure loans for her mother’s funeral costs. She reported no further financial assistance or contact from the bar’s management.