Fatal Hotel Fire in Bangkok’s Khao San Area Under Investigation


BANGKOK: Authorities are piecing together evidence to determine the cause of a devastating fire at a hotel in Bangkok’s Khao San area that left three tourists dead and several others injured. The blaze, which broke out late on December 29, trapped many guests inside the six-story hotel located on Tani Road, Talat Yot Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon District.



According to Thai News Agency, the fire has prompted an investigation by the Police Forensic Science Office. The incident resulted in the tragic deaths of three individuals: one person died at the scene, while two others succumbed to injuries at the hospital. The fatalities include a Brazilian woman who had recently become engaged, and two men, whose identities and nationalities are yet to be confirmed, died at Vajira Hospital and Samitivej Chinatown Hospital.



In the aftermath of the fire, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration declared the area a hazardous zone, restricting access to ensure safety. Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, the Governor of Bangkok, along with other officials, visited the site to assess the damage. Initial investigations suggest the fire may have originated from Room 511 on the building’s fifth floor. However, the exact cause remains undetermined. The hotel, a converted establishment comprising 11 shophouses, was licensed in 2020 and opened in April 2022.



Emergency responders arrived within minutes of the alert and found the building engulfed in thick smoke. Approximately 34 of the 75 guests evacuated to the rooftop, while others managed to escape via the fire exits. Firefighters employed a cherry picker to rescue those stranded on the rooftop.



Despite the presence of fire safety equipment, the building lacked a sprinkler system due to its small size, allowing smoke to spread rapidly. Mr. Chadchart emphasized the need for improved fire safety measures and legislative changes to cover smaller buildings. He reassured that immediate inspections of local hotels would be conducted to enhance tourist confidence during the festive season.



The investigation revealed five injuries, including a Canadian national who suffered smoke inhalation and broken ribs. Chana Songkhram Police Station has questioned three Korean tourists from Room 511, who claimed they were not present during the fire and had left no electronic devices plugged in. Authorities are scrutinizing why one deceased individual was found in Room 511 despite being registered in Room 502.



Mr. Jeff Johnson, an American tourist, recounted his experience, describing the panic as guests sought refuge on the rooftop. He commended the swift response of Thai rescue workers, which brought him relief after the initial shock.



Mr. Sanga Ruangwattanakul, President of the Khao San Road Business Association, expressed confidence that the incident would not deter tourism, noting no cancellations despite the tragedy. Preparations are underway to ensure safety during upcoming New Year celebrations, with authorities conducting inspections of local establishments.



Compensation for victims has been announced, with the Phra Nakhon District Director stating that the amounts will align with those for Thai nationals. Forensic officers continue to analyze evidence, with results expected soon, although the fire’s cause remains undetermined.