33 Killed by Toxic Gas in Bar Fire as Bolted Exit Raises Outrage

he 33 people killed in a devastating fire at a popular Bangkok bar died after inhaling deadly cyanide and carbon monoxide released by the flames, according to newly released autopsy findings.

The toxic gases can prevent the body from getting enough oxygen and may kill within minutes when inhaled in high concentrations, Metropolitan Police Bureau Commissioner Siam Boonsom said.

The findings were turned over to investigators probing the July 12 blaze at Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao, a beer hall and live-music venue in Thailand’s capital.

The fire broke out shortly before midnight and quickly became Bangkok’s deadliest blaze in 17 years. At least 33 people were killed and more than 70 others were injured, including 24 who were listed in critical condition.

Several police officers who entered the burning building also suffered severe smoke inhalation and respiratory problems. They were treated at Police General Hospital and later released.

Investigators believe an overloaded electrical system may have sparked the fire. However, the investigation has also raised disturbing questions about an emergency exit that was reportedly bolted shut when the flames erupted.

According to the Metropolitan Electricity Authority, the venue was using more power than it had originally requested and had sought an upgrade.

Officials reportedly tried several times to inspect the building but were repeatedly told the property was not ready.

Investigators believe electrical work may have been completed anyway, possibly overloading the system before a short circuit triggered the fire, according to The Nation.

Authorities are also focusing on an emergency exit near the restrooms.

Police said the door had been secured with a bolt, forcing panicked concertgoers to remove it before they could escape. Emergency exits are generally required to remain unlocked and immediately accessible.

Investigators are now trying to determine whether the blocked door slowed the evacuation and whether all four of the building’s entrances and exits complied with safety codes.

They are also looking into whether the venue ever conducted emergency evacuation drills.

More than 106 people have been questioned, including managers, employees, relatives of the victims, forensic experts, engineers and power company officials.

Police have also sought statements from electricians who previously worked at the venue.

The bar’s owner remained on a ventilator but was reportedly showing signs of improvement.

The owner’s mother, who is listed in business records as a partner, had not been questioned because investigators did not believe she was involved in the venue’s daily operations.

The owner’s sister, who was described as a member of the management team, has given a statement.

Police are also investigating whether the business had any undisclosed partners and are reviewing company finances to determine where its profits went.

Authorities expect to charge the owner once he is well enough to communicate.

Possible charges could include negligence resulting in death and serious injury, unauthorized building alterations and operating beyond the terms of the venue’s license.

No charges had been filed as of the latest update.

Investigators are also examining whether local officials failed to properly inspect the building before the tragedy.

Thailand’s prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has ordered authorities to speed up the investigation. Police said the final case file will combine evidence from medical examiners, engineers, forensic experts and local officials.

The disaster was Bangkok’s deadliest fire since the 2009 Santika nightclub blaze, which killed 67 people and injured more than 200 during New Year’s celebrations.