Police Still Investigating Ladprao Beer Hall Fire, Suspects to Be Named This Week
Police are investigating a deadly Ladprao beer hall fire with forensic results and suspect names expected this week as authorities review building inspections and question witnesses about safety violations.
Police Region 2 Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Kiatkul Sandhanee convened an investigative team on July 20 to review progress in the Ladprao beer hall fire case. Authorities have questioned three groups of witnesses so far: injured survivors, shop staff, and Chatuchak district officials who issued the business license. The commander emphasized the case's high public profile and its impact on confidence in workplace safety regulations and government oversight. About 150 witness statements have been taken, mostly from survivors, victims' relatives, rescue personnel, and subject matter experts. The investigation is proceeding on preliminary charges of negligence causing fire resulting in death and serious injury, as well as violations of the Building Control Act. The commander stated that forensic results and cause determination are expected within this week. The issue of civil engineers who inspected the venue in April—finding no defects—is under review, and those officials are being sought for questioning. The shop owner remains hospitalized and unable to be interviewed. Investigators are pursuing the case with scientific evidence as the foundation to ensure justice for the victims.
