Bangkok: A fire at a pub in Bangkok has killed 27 people and injured 73 others, with police investigating possible negligence, including blocked emergency exits and potential safety violations.

The blaze broke out shortly before midnight on Sunday at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in northern Bangkok. Authorities said 25 of the injured remain in critical condition, while 32 people have been treated and discharged.

According to an initial assessment by Bangkok’s disaster administration, the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit in a ceiling air-conditioning unit.

Police are also investigating reports that some exits were obstructed, doors were locked and flammable materials were used in stage decorations and soundproofing.

National Police Chief Kittiratt Phanphet said negligence is currently the primary focus of the investigation.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the site, said many victims attempted to escape through the rear of the building.

“Most of the victims ran to the back of the building, into the bathroom, and there was no clear sign of a fire exit,” he said.

Authorities said many of the bodies were found near the venue’s toilets after the fire spread rapidly from the stage area.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said one emergency exit near the kitchen was partially blocked by beer crates.

Officials are also examining whether tables, decorations and other indoor equipment obstructed escape routes.

Firefighters who responded to the incident said many survivors suffered from smoke inhalation as thick smoke quickly filled the building.

The venue, licensed as a restaurant and live music establishment, underwent a safety inspection in April this year, when fire exits, emergency signage and fire extinguishers were reportedly in place.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the fire and whether safety failures contributed to the high death toll.