At least 13 people have died in a devastating fire at a large pub on Thailand’s east coast. Around 40 people were injured in the fire on Friday night (local time) in Sattahip, eight of them seriously, the Bangkok Post newspaper reported, citing the rescue team. Most of the victims were found in the toilet rooms and near the entrance. It was initially unclear what caused the fire. Sattahip is about 30 kilometers south of Pattaya.
According to initial findings, all victims – nine men and four women – are Thais, the police said.
Videos on social media show visitors trying to escape the flames at Mountain B Pub with just one open door. People with burning clothes flee into the street and scream, while in the background the whole building is ablaze. The interior of the restaurant was completely destroyed.
According to information from the newspaper “Khaosod”, many guests were trapped in the building because the back exit was locked. In addition, the inside of the pub is said to have been lined with easily combustible foam panels for soundproofing. Eyewitnesses later reported hearing two explosions near the DJ booth.
The restaurant had only opened a month ago and was particularly popular with young people from the surrounding area.
