Four voluntary rescue workers and the owner of the house were killed, following a fire at the Krisda Nakhon 31 housing estate in Thawee Wattana district of Bangkok Saturday morning.
According to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation entered the three-story building after they had extinguished fire.
Without warning, the heavily damaged building caved in, killing five men.
The five who were killed were Kiat Patterson, 35, who was the owner of the house, Samatcha Nilthong, 48, Atthaphol Thuamthong, 26, Suthat Plienklad, 38, and Thanapob Prapai, 44.
Bangkok Governor Aswin Kwanmuang, who rushed to the scene, said that heavy machines could not be used to remove the heavy concrete slabs and workers were having to use hand tools in efforts to reach those trapped inside.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has offered his condolences for those killed and ordered authorities to help their families, said Ms. Traisulee Traisoranakul, deputy government spokesperson, said today.
He also praised the rescue workers for their bravery and sacrifice.
