BANGKOK — A 20-year-old woman, Apinya Sukthongsa, died early on Sunday, July 19, from injuries sustained in a devastating fire that engulfed the Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao bar and restaurant in Bangkok one week earlier, health authorities confirmed. This latest death raises the toll from the blaze to 34.

The fire broke out on the night of July 12, rapidly consuming the popular live music venue. Around 70 people were injured, with 13 still in intensive care units, according to officials from the Erawan Emergency Medical Centre, operated by Bangkok city authorities.

Most victims died from smoke inhalation, while others succumbed to severe burn injuries in hospital, police told AFP last week. Investigators are examining the cause of the fire and why it was so deadly. Many victims’ bodies were found near the toilets, prompting officials to question whether fire exits were obstructed.

A building safety expert told AFP that Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao appeared to lack the necessary safety systems for the large crowds and live music events it hosted.

The tragedy recalls a similar incident in 2009 when a fire at Bangkok’s Santika club during New Year celebrations killed 67 people and injured more than 200.

Sources