Pattaya: Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a hotel in downtown Pattaya, which engulfed over 200 tourists in panic. Initial reports indicate three people sustained minor injuries and one is seriously injured. Officials found the fire originated on the 8th-floor rooftop and have temporarily suspended the building's use pending a detailed inspection by engineers to confirm the structural safety.
According to Thai News Agency, a fire broke out inside a luxury hotel in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, at around 10:00 PM on May 21st. The flames raged fiercely through the building, sending thick smoke billowing into the sky. Pattaya's land-based fire prevention and mitigation unit, along with dozens of fire trucks and volunteer rescue workers, rushed into the building to search for and rescue those trapped inside, evacuating them to safety in a chaotic operation. The fire was brought under control at around 11:00 PM.
This morning, Mr. Marut Uthaiwattananon, Acting Head of the Building Control Division of Pattaya City, along with officials from the Public Works Department and related agencies, inspected the hotel. They found that the fire likely originated on the rooftop and spread rapidly, but the lower levels were undamaged. Only smoke caused partial damage inside the hotel.
Following this, the building's use has been temporarily suspended pending a detailed inspection by expert engineers. The building owner has also been required to submit a report explaining the situation before it is submitted to the relevant authorities for further inspection to assess the risks and evaluate the impact on the building's structure.
The fire originated on the rooftop, which houses the swimming pool and other amenities. Most of the damage is to smaller structures, while the main building structure shows no significant damage. It is believed the flames did not spread to lower floors as they originated on the top floor. However, a detailed inspection by engineers is necessary to confirm the building's structural safety and prevent future occupants before permission is granted for the building to reopen.
Of the 173 rooms occupied by tourists, 120 were unoccupied. Following the incident, the hotel and related staff arranged alternative accommodations at three hotels. Three people suffered smoke inhalation injuries: two Thai women and one Indonesian boy. A fourth person, a Thai man, sustained severe burns (over 20%) and serious smoke inhalation injuries while running through the flames. All were taken to nearby hospitals and are now in improved condition.