3 foreigners killed, several others injured by fire at hotel in popular Bangkok tourism area

A fire broke out at a hotel in a popular tourism area in Bangkok, killing three and injuring several other people, Thai police said. A police colonel told The Associated Press the three who died in the fire on Sunday night were all foreign tourists One was found dead at the scene and the other two died after being transported to the hospital. The incident occurred at The Ember Hotel on Khao San Road, a famous backpacker street in the Thai capital known for its nightlife. The fire erupted on the 5th floor of the six-story hotel, according to police. The flames were eventually contained, and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Seventy-five people were staying at the hotel at the time of the fire. Seven people were injured, including two Thai nationals and five foreign tourists. Several firework events and celebrations are expected to occur across the city, and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stressed the importance of safety as the New Year's countdown festivities approach.