It was initially reported that four workers were trapped in the building, said BMA Public Works Department’s Building Control Division head Noppadol Chaipanya.

Backhoe driver Phichit Pasada told police that he and another nine workers were preparing to demolish the building. As he was refilling the backhoe and other workers were checking the building, he heard something like a sling snap before the building collapsed and workers ran for safety.

The contractor had obtained permission to demolish the building on November 22. However, Phra Khanong district office ordered a temporary suspension of the demolition on December 2 after officials found hazardous problems at the site.