BANGKOK — A devastating fire broke out at a hotel located near Khao San Road, a well-known area for tourists in Bangkok, resulting in the deaths of three foreign individuals and injuring several others, according to police reports from Monday.

Authorities revealed that the fatalities occurred on Sunday night, with Police Colonel Sanong Saengmanee confirming that the victims were all tourists. One individual was found deceased at the site of the blaze, while two others succumbed to their injuries after being taken to a nearby hospital.

The deceased have been identified as an American man, a Brazilian woman, and a Ukrainian man. Additionally, five people are receiving medical care, including a Japanese woman who is currently in critical condition. The other hospitalized individuals include a Japanese man, two Germans, and a Thai electrician.

The fire ignited on the fifth floor of the six-story Ember Hotel, according to police details. Khao San Road is a favored destination among backpackers and is famous for its vibrant nightlife.

Fire crews managed to contain the blaze, and an investigation into the cause is ongoing. At the time of the fire, about 75 guests were staying in the hotel.

Sreekanth Kolamala, a 37-year-old Indian national residing in Singapore and visiting Thailand for leisure, witnessed the ongoing rescue efforts. He described the scene, stating that firefighters “broke the glass over there to try to pull people out.”

Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association, was present outside the Ember Hotel on Monday observing the aftermath of the fire. He expressed concern regarding an upcoming New Year’s Eve countdown celebration, which is expected to attract around 20,000 attendees.

“Now everybody’s scared about what happened and they’re worried it could impact the event tomorrow. However, we’ve coordinated with the police, and over 150 officers and district staff will be deployed for security on Khao San Road,” he reassured.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt also highlighted the need for heightened safety measures following the incident, especially as New Year’s Eve festivities are on the horizon, with various fireworks displays and celebrations planned throughout the city.