A fire broke out at a well-known hotel on Tanee Road in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district on the night of December 29, originating from room 511 on the fifth floor. Emergency responders acted swiftly, using fire trucks and aerial ladders to evacuate around 40-50 guests who were trapped on the rooftop. Heavy smoke caused several guests to require immediate medical attention. Four individuals were sent to nearby hospitals, but tragically, three lives were lost, including a foreign tourist whose nationality remains unidentified. The building housed 39 guests at the time of the incident out of a total of 75 registered occupants.
Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Deputy Minister Teerarat Samretwanit arrived at the scene to oversee operations and assess the aftermath. They reported that the fire was quickly contained, preventing further damage. However, significant smoke posed a major hazard. Authorities ordered the temporary closure of the hotel to ensure building safety and address concerns. The Governor assured the public that safety protocols will be thoroughly reviewed to protect lives and properties, especially with New Year's festivities around the corner. Officials believe the incident will not tarnish Bangkok’s image as a tourist destination.
Police and forensic teams are investigating the cause of the fire, focusing on room 511 where the blaze originated. Survivors have been providing their accounts to law enforcement at Chanasongkram Police Station. Meanwhile, officials stress that restoring tourist confidence in safety remains a priority. The incident has highlighted the importance of stringent fire prevention measures in high-occupancy buildings to avoid future tragedies.