An injured survivor of Sunday's deadly fire at Rong Beer Na Ladprao has filed a complaint with police, alleging no fire alarm sounded before the blaze. Investigators are reviewing footage from 16 security cameras as they work to determine the cause of the tragedy. The death toll rose to 32 on Wednesday after another critically injured victim died in hospital.
Mr Natthaphot, who was injured in the fire, gave a statement to investigators at Phahonyothin police station on Wednesday. He said he arrived at the entertainment venue about 10.30pm and was seated near the stage, close to the main entrance.
Shortly before the fire broke out, he noticed smoke but initially believed it was part of the special effects used during the live music performance. Moments later, he saw sparks and detected a burning smell. He said no fire alarm sounded and he did not see any sprinkler system operating inside the building.
Mr Natthaphot said he realised the severity of the situation only after hearing people shout that a fire had broken out. He managed to escape after a security guard used a flashlight to direct patrons to an emergency exit near the restrooms.
Police said they were reviewing footage from 16 security cameras obtained from the venue. Preliminary findings indicate flames were visible on the ceiling above the stage for about 20 seconds before spreading rapidly throughout the building.
Investigators are expected to question electrical and structural engineering experts as they seek to establish the cause.
Police said they have questioned 52 witnesses, including over 30 injured victims and relatives of those killed, 16 venue employees and two officials involved in the initial examination of the scene.
