PATTAYA, Thailand – A fire at an unlicensed entertainment venue in Pattaya early on July 1 left one male staff member dead after he was trapped inside the burning building, with authorities now investigating the cause of the blaze and possible safety violations. Emergency services were alerted at 12:16 a.m. to a fire at “Catwalk” nightclub, located in Soi Chalermphrakiat 29 in South Pattaya. Police from Pattaya City Police Station, local administrative officials, and rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon rushed to the scene. Firefighters arrived to find the venue, a bar and host-style entertainment venue, engulfed in heavy flames and thick smoke. Three fire trucks were deployed to battle the blaze, with additional assistance from a private water truck that happened to be passing by. The fire was brought under control after approximately 30 minutes.
The fire is believed to have started near the main entrance and quickly spread through the structure. During the search, firefighters discovered the body of Thanapol Bunchan, 29, a male staff member, inside a bathroom. He was reportedly unable to escape and died at the scene. Eyewitnesses said employees and nearby residents saw flames spreading rapidly from the roof area toward the exit route, leaving little time for evacuation. Some attempted to flee, but the victim is believed to have been trapped inside.
A water delivery truck operator who assisted at the scene said he was making a delivery nearby when he noticed the fire and immediately used his vehicle to help contain the flames before emergency services arrived. Preliminary inspections by police and local officials found that the venue was operating without a valid entertainment license. Authorities also noted the building lacked a proper emergency exit, raising serious concerns about fire safety compliance. Follow-up inspections were conducted later in the morning, with Chonburi Deputy Governor Isara Charoenchasri joining forensic police from Region 2 and Pattaya City officials at the scene. The area was sealed off as investigators prepared to conduct a detailed forensic examination.
Officials confirmed that the venue’s operating license had expired since the COVID-19 period and that further inspections would be carried out on nearby establishments to ensure compliance with safety and zoning regulations. No charges have been filed yet, as authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The building has been ordered closed pending investigation, and structural safety checks are also underway. The body of the deceased is expected to be released from the Police General Hospital Institute of Forensic Medicine for funeral arrangements in Surin province. The venue owner has reportedly expressed willingness to assist with funeral expenses and provide initial compensation to the victim’s family. Investigations into the exact cause of the fire continue, with officials awaiting a full report from forensic specialists.
