Police Still Unclear on Locked Exit Door at Ladprao Beer House
Police are still investigating unclear circumstances around locked exits at the Beer House at Ladprao fire, with the owner critically ill and unable to provide testimony. The commissioner confirmed forensic reports are pending as authoritie
On July 14, 2025, at Government House, Police Commissioner General Kittirattana Pannadet updated the investigation into the fire at "Beer House at Ladprao." He stated that the forensic police report has not yet been received, but a meeting was held between the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Commander and the Police Hospital's chief medical officer regarding the investigation. The owner remains in critical condition in the ICU and cannot provide a statement.
Regarding allegations that the establishment operated illegally, the commissioner said police are checking whether the business license was obtained properly and whether operations violated permitted categories. All such matters are under investigation.
On the question of whether exit doors were locked, the commissioner said it remains unclear. However, from his site inspection, he found four doors. Doors 1 and 2 are the main entrance and exit facing Ladprao Road. Door 3, near the men's restroom, has two locks and a handle with a table positioned nearby and scattered candy, suggesting it may have been closed to prevent customers from leaving without paying. Door 4 is a sliding kitchen door with two bolts that appear to be damaged, possibly during the fire. It remains under investigation whether this door was used during the incident.
Regarding emergency exit signage, the commissioner noted a small sign above Door 4 leading to the kitchen was destroyed by fire, and forensic analysis is determining whether it was a proper emergency exit sign. However, during the fire, the power failed and thick black smoke would have obscured visibility.
On responsibility if the owner dies, the commissioner stated that the law clearly addresses negligence charges, but civil liability extends to all partners, co-registered owners, cooks, staff, and security personnel. All parties have been grouped for investigation to determine what actually happened. The commissioner emphasized there is no fixed timeline but stressed the investigation must be complete and accurate, noting this case has caused great sadness.
