Bangkok nightclub inferno toll rises to 61
Posted: 03 January 2009 1352 hrs

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BANGKOK: The death toll from a fire at a Bangkok nightclub New Year party has risen to 61 after two more people died in hospital overnight, a senior health official said Saturday.

The toll from the blaze at the Santika nightclub could rise further as many of the injured remain in critical condition, said Chatree Charoencheewakul, secretary of the National Institute of Emergency Medical Systems.

"It's very sad. The death toll is now at 61 after a man and woman died last night," Chatree told AFP.

“Of the 89 who are still hospitalised, 26 remain in the ICU (intensive care unit). Based on their medical records, I think up to five cases are very serious and I am really concerned for them," he said.

Police are still investigating the cause of the blaze at the packed club in the city's popular Ekkamai district, which broke out just after midnight on Thursday after revellers counted down the New Year.

Early reports by police suggested it might have been caused by a pyrotechnics display on stage but officials said they were also investigating the wiring in the club and sparklers handed out to guests.

- AFP/yb