Bangkok pub fire death toll hits 30; 24 remain critical as police probe negligence 

The death toll in bar fire tragedy in Thailand’s capital has risen to 30, as Bangkok authorities pledged stricter safety inspections and police investigated possible negligence and safety violations.

Thailand's authorities inform that the devastating fire incident in Chatuchak district, Bangkok was the city's deadliest building fire in 17 years.

As reported, the fire broke out late on Sunday night, July 12 at the live-music venue and beer hall at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub, Bangkok.

While firefighters managed to control the blaze in about 30 minutes, the speed at which the fire and toxic smoke spread, left many trapped inside.

Thai officials said on Tuesday over 70 people were hospitalized, with 24 victims remain in critical condition.

Authorities said an electrical short circuit in a ceiling air conditioner could have triggered the fire in the pub, which underwent a safety inspection in April.

They are also investigating whether gas canisters were stored in the kitchen and whether they contributed to the blaze

Police investigating the cause of the fire, are probing whether the bar management followed safety regulations.

Royal Thai Police chief Kittharath Punpetch said the single-story bar had four exits, but police were examining whether the two rear exits were blocked or unusable.

“We’ve set up a committee to investigate the truth, what should be improved and what rules should be changed,” Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt told a news conference on Tuesday. “We will do more random checks.”