Musicians Escape Fire at Bangkok Venue; Emergency Doors Locked
A fire at a Bangkok music venue on July 13 killed multiple people including 11 band members, with survivors reporting the emergency doors were locked and the venue had known electrical problems. Bass musician Anon Prasert escaped after seei
Bass musician Anon Prasert, 37, arrived at the fire scene on July 13, 2025, to collect his bass effect equipment, which was partially destroyed. He reported that during the performance, he suddenly smelled burning and saw sparks falling to the floor, prompting him to call friends and immediately run from the venue. As he exited the front, he heard one loud explosion followed by a strong gas smell.
After escaping, Prasert filmed video on his phone, shocked by what had happened—his first brush with death during a live performance. He expressed deep sadness, having just been on stage talking with the band when everything erupted in chaos. He grieved for a bandmate who died.
Regarding bandmate Din, Prasert received word from friends that he is now reachable and still undergoing hospital treatment, contradicting earlier reports of his death. He plans to visit Din in the hospital.
Prasert said he felt devastated by the incident, which killed multiple people including 11 band members who had come to perform. He requested a break from live performances due to emotional distress.
Prasert also revealed that the owner or partner confirmed being in the venue during the fire and removed his shirt and pants to help extinguish flames for customers. The owner then ran outside in pain. As of Prasert's statement, no one had contacted him about damages or medical costs, as he had left around 5 a.m. and was questioned by Phaholyothin police station later that evening.
Prasert noted that bandmate Kwang, a keyboard player and air force officer, was planning to quit music at month's end, but the fire has left him without the will to perform, saying his mental state is not strong enough.
Guitar player Maitri from the band disclosed that he had performed at the venue for years and noted recurring electrical problems—lights flickering and cutting out frequently. However, he deferred questions about maintenance to the owner. He described the owner as a kind-hearted, well-intentioned person who cared for staff and was strict about security, prohibiting weapons and requiring smoking to occur outside the venue.
On the night of the fire, with approximately 100 customers in the venue, Maitri detected a burning smell during the set. Soon after, smoke appeared from above, the electrical system short-circuited, and people screamed. He quickly exited before the major fire erupted, shocked that band members suffered injuries and death. He acknowledged the inherent risk in his profession, noting that performers never know the safety conditions of each venue they work.
