Bangkok – Thailand   2025

BUSAR Deployment Update: Supporting Search and Recovery Efforts in Bangkok, Thailand

In the wake of a devastating high-rise collapse in Bangkok, the Burnaby Urban Search and Rescue (BUSAR) team has been deployed to support ongoing operations. Upon learning of the disaster, we reached out to Thai officials and were given the opportunity to join local emergency services on the ground in their efforts to search for survivors.

At the time of our arrival, 73 individuals were still unaccounted for. Thai officials continue to hold hope that some survivors may have reached protected voids, such as the stairwell leading to the building’s underground parking area. BUSAR has been actively involved in systematic ground searches in coordination with the Thailand Urban Search and Rescue team and other local agencies, including the military, fire department, forensics, and drone units.

Our team has brought to the effort specialized equipment including search cameras, concrete breaching tools, and highly trained search dogs. Working in challenging conditions—often several stories above the original ground level—our members have conducted detailed void searches, supported by canine indications and structural assessments.

The scale and coordination of the Thai-led response has been exceptional. Notably, the care provided to K9 units has been nothing short of outstanding. The dedicated canine base camp across from the collapse site includes veterinary staff, cooling areas, and individualized support for working dogs like Pele—ensuring they can operate safely in extreme conditions.

Beyond the technical aspects of the deployment, BUSAR’s involvement also serves a broader mission: to stand with communities in their time of greatest need. As trained first responders and volunteers, our team feels a deep responsibility to contribute wherever possible—whether at home or abroad. This deployment has offered not only an opportunity to support those affected by tragedy but also to deepen relationships with international partners and enhance our operational readiness for future emergencies.

We are incredibly grateful for the support of our donors, the Burnaby Fire Department, Burnaby Firefighters Local 323, and our wider community. Every deployment is made possible by your generosity. BUSAR is a 100% volunteer organization. We do not receive wages—every dollar goes directly toward transportation, logistics, equipment, and training to ensure we’re ready when the call comes.

To support our ongoing efforts in Thailand and beyond, please consider donating at burnabyusar.ca or through our CanadaHelps page.

From the ground in Bangkok, thank you for standing with us.