Tragic School Shooting in Thailand Leaves Several Dead and Injured

A tragic incident unfolded at a high school near Bangkok on a Friday morning, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals and leaving over 20 wounded. Authorities confirmed that a 14-year-old student was responsible for the shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Nonthaburi province. The situation escalated early in the morning when the student allegedly killed his grandparents at their residence before heading to the school.

Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwunchwee confirmed that the shooting began around 10 a.m. Five school staff members, comprising teachers and administrators, lost their lives during the attack. The young shooter ended his life at the scene. Polapee further stated that the shooter had previously killed his grandparents at their shared home.

Nearby Bangyai Hospital reported 23 individuals injured, with 10 in critical condition. Most victims suffered from gunshot wounds. Initial casualty figures varied, leading to some confusion regarding the exact numbers.

Witnesses described the harrowing events as students sought refuge in classrooms while gunfire erupted from another building. Amporn Niamfuang, a local restaurant owner, recounted hearing a series of gunshots. “Students were running scared and pouring onto the street. Young girls were holding each other’s hands and crying,” Amporn recalled.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the school to assess the situation. He confirmed the shooter’s age and his tragic decision to end his life. Anutin highlighted the stress the student faced related to school. The firearm used in this incident was legally owned by the shooter’s grandfather, described by police as small and compact.

Thailand holds one of the highest civilian gun ownership rates in Asia, only behind Pakistan. A 2017 study by Small Arms Survey and GunPolicy.org reported approximately 15.1 guns per 100 people in Thailand, significantly higher than Malaysia’s less than one per 100.