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Picture from responders. A Burmese national was fatally stabbed in a workers’ housing area in Kanchanaburi on the afternoon of 17 February. Authorities quickly launched a manhunt and successfully apprehended the suspect, who is also from Myanmar, shortly after the incident. At approximately 13:50, the Pitak Kanchanaburi Rescue Centre received an emergency report from the 191 police radio centre regarding a fatal stabbing incident in Soi 1, Kaeng Sian subdistrict. Rescue personnel and police officers were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, responders found the body of a male victim, identified as a Myanmar national, lying on his back inside a row of rented rooms. A single stab wound was found beneath his left ribcage. Medical examiners, along with police investigators, conducted an initial examination at the scene. Witnesses reported that the suspect, also a Myanmar national, had fled the scene after attacking the victim, who was believed to be his supervisor at a construction site. He ran towards an area near Wat Tha Nam Tuen School in an attempt to escape. Police from Mueang Kanchanaburi Police Station, along with volunteers, swiftly launched a search operation. After a short pursuit, the suspect was successfully apprehended and taken into custody. Police Investigator Pol. Lt. Col. Sam-ang Supaphattananan is leading the inquiry into the case. The motive for the attack has yet to be determined, but initial reports suggest that it may have stemmed from a workplace dispute. Authorities are continuing their investigation, and the suspect remains in police custody pending further legal proceedings. -- 2025-02-18

Double Tragedy at Traffic Lights: Truck Overturns, Elderly Woman Fatally Hit A traffic crash in Suphan Buri resulted in two separate incidents, leaving one elderly woman dead and a truck overturned at a busy intersection. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352075-double-tragedy-at-traffic-lights-truck-overturns-elderly-woman-fatally-hit/

Picture from responders. A traffic crash in Suphan Buri resulted in two separate incidents, leaving one elderly woman dead and a truck overturned at a busy intersection. The initial crash occurred at the Sri Prachan intersection when a pickup truck carrying papayas overturned after crashing into a traffic light pole. Police and rescue teams were called to the scene, where they found the overturned vehicle with its cargo scattered across the road, blocking traffic. The driver, 27-year-old Anupap, explained that he was transporting papayas from Nan to Ratchaburi’s Sri Muang Market. As he approached the intersection, the traffic light turned red unexpectedly. Attempting to stop, he braked suddenly, but due to his high speed and the curve in the road, he lost control, causing the vehicle to overturn. Fortunately, he sustained only minor injuries. While police and rescue workers were clearing the scene, a second incident unfolded. An 82-year-old woman, identified as Amapai, was struck by a white SUV as she crossed the road, at the intersection. The impact left her critically injured, and she was rushed to Sri Prachan Hospital, where she later died from her injuries. The SUV driver, 34-year-old identified only as Ms. B, a hospital worker, was visibly shaken and in tears at the scene. She told police that she had been driving to work and proceeded through the green light, unaware that the elderly woman was crossing. “I only looked at the traffic signal and didn’t see her. I feel shocked and deeply sorry,” she said. Amapai’s younger brother, who owns a business nearby, rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. He explained that his sister regularly crossed the intersection to shop at the local market. CCTV footage confirmed that Ms. B had crossed the intersection with the flow of traffic, while Amapai had nearly reached the far lane when she was struck. Police have charged Ms. B with reckless driving causing death. Further investigations are underway to finalise the case. -- 2025-02-18

UPDATE Chinese Tourist Flees Thailand After Suspected Drug Overdose Death of Woman A Chinese tourist accused of involvement in the drug-related death of a 22-year-old Thai woman has fled the country, raising questions about the police response and legal proceedings. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351973-chinese-man-faces-arrest-over-death-of-thai-woman-in-hotel-room/#findComment-19595474

UPDATE Chinese Tourist Flees Thailand After Suspected Drug Overdose Death of Woman Picture captured from CCTV A Chinese tourist accused of involvement in the drug-related death of a 22-year-old Thai woman has fled the country, raising questions about the police response and legal proceedings. The case revolves around Ms. Airada, known as “Nong Ai,” who died of a suspected drug overdose in a Bangkok hotel. Authorities believe she was with a Chinese national, identified as Mr. Duying Wu, who allegedly encouraged her to take illegal substances. Forensic evidence collected at the scene included traces of “Happy Water” and ketamine, powerful narcotics widely used in China. According to Associate Professor Dr. Weerasak Jaratchaisri, a forensic expert at Srinakharinwirot University, Happy Water is a dangerous mix of eight different drugs, comprising both stimulants and depressants. It is particularly hazardous when consumed with alcohol, as this accelerates the absorption of the substances into the bloodstream, potentially leading to circulatory failure. Although toxicology reports are still pending, forensic experts suggest the possibility that Nong Ai was forced to take the drugs. Her family insists she had no history of drug use, fuelling concerns that she may have been coerced. The case has drawn widespread attention, especially after reports surfaced that Thai police had engaged in discussions with the victim’s family regarding compensation. This sparked public criticism, with concerns that authorities were assisting the suspect rather than seeking justice for the victim. Former Deputy Metropolitan Police Chief Pol Maj Gen Wichai Sangprapai acknowledged that such negotiations could be interpreted in two ways, either as an attempt to secure a financial settlement, similar to traffic accident cases, or as an inappropriate effort to shield the suspect. Despite growing scrutiny, Mr. Wu managed to leave Thailand before an arrest warrant could be issued. Critics argue that police acted too slowly, failing to prevent his escape. However, senior officials defended the process, stating that gathering sufficient evidence to issue a warrant takes time. With the prime suspect now outside Thailand, authorities face mounting pressure to coordinate with international law enforcement to bring him to justice. Meanwhile, the victim’s family continues to demand answers and accountability. -- 2025-02-18

Rottweiler Chases and Injures 4.5-Metre King Cobra in Krabi; Snake Escapes to Safety A giant king cobra was chased and mauled by a Rottweiler in Krabi, leaving the snake injured and desperately seeking refuge. The incident unfolded on February 16, when the snake, measuring 4.5 meters and weighing 20 kilograms, was discovered hiding near a water jar outside the home of 62-year-old former village head, Chaisilp Klangrak, in Klong Ya, Ao Luek district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352074-rottweiler-chases-and-injures-45-metre-king-cobra-in-krabi-snake-escapes-to-safety/

Picture from responders. A giant king cobra was chased and mauled by a Rottweiler in Krabi, leaving the snake injured and desperately seeking refuge. The incident unfolded on February 16, when the snake, measuring 4.5 meters and weighing 20 kilograms, was discovered hiding near a water jar outside the home of 62-year-old former village head, Chaisilp Klangrak, in Klong Ya, Ao Luek district. The local rescue team, from the Klong Ya Khai Sawang Charitable Rescue Foundation, quickly responded to the distress call. Upon arriving, they found the injured snake coiled next to the water jar. Using specialised snake-catching equipment, the rescue team managed to safely secure the cobra within 10 minutes. Upon closer inspection, bite marks from the Rottweiler were visible across the snake’s body. The snake had reportedly been attacked by the family’s Rottweiler, prompting it to flee and seek shelter in the yard. It is believed that the snake had been searching for water, likely due to the ongoing drought in the region, when it encountered the dog. The former village head heard the barking and quickly alerted authorities, leading to the rescue of the snake, which was later treated and released back into the wild. This encounter highlights both the challenges posed by drought conditions and the dangerous interactions between wildlife and domesticated animals. -- 2025-02-18

Children Killed in Crash Between Lorry and Motorcycle in Phetchabun A crash in Phetchabun has claimed the lives of two young children after an articulated lorry collided with a motorcycle. The incident occurred at 10:00 on February 16, on Highway 3004, near kilometre marker 98+500, between Wang Pikul and Sap Somothod, in Bueng Samphan district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352073-children-killed-in-crash-between-lorry-and-motorcycle-in-phetchabun/

Picture from responders. A crash in Phetchabun has claimed the lives of two young children after an articulated lorry collided with a motorcycle. The incident occurred at 10:00 on February 16, on Highway 3004, near kilometre marker 98+500, between Wang Pikul and Sap Somothod, in Bueng Samphan district. According to the Phetchabun Road Safety Command Centre, the truck, registered in Surin, was heading towards Sap Somothod when the driver lost control and veered into the opposite lane. The vehicle then collided with an oncoming motorcycle, which did not have a license plate. The devastating crash resulted in the deaths of three people: one man, one boy, and one girl. The names and ages of the victims has not been released. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and the driver was taken in for questioning. Authorities will proceed with legal actions as required. -- 2025-02-18

Neighbour Dispute Ends in Tragedy as Rubber Farmer Shot Dead A long-standing land dispute between two neighbours took a deadly turn in Nakhon Si Thammarat on 17 February, when a heated argument in a rubber plantation led to a fatal shooting. The suspect, unable to control his anger, turned himself in to police shortly after the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352072-neighbour-dispute-ends-in-tragedy-as-rubber-farmer-shot-dead/

Picture from responders. A long-standing land dispute between two neighbours took a deadly turn in Nakhon Si Thammarat on 17 February, when a heated argument in a rubber plantation led to a fatal shooting. The suspect, unable to control his anger, turned himself in to police shortly after the incident. The shooting occurred in a rubber plantation in Ban Tham Thong, Moo 9, Tham Phannara subdistrict, Tham Phannara district. Police and emergency responders, led by Pol Lt Pramote Namrob, were called to the scene, where they found the lifeless body of Mr. Jaroensilp, aged 53. The victim had suffered three gunshot wounds, two to the torso and one to the head, inflicted by a .357 calibre firearm. A latex collection container lay near his body. The perpetrator, identified as 49-year-old Mr. Weera, was a neighbouring landowner. Following the shooting, he voluntarily surrendered to local police, handing over the weapon used in the crime. During questioning, Mr. Weera admitted to the killing, stating that he and the victim had a history of disputes over their adjacent rubber plantations. On the time of the incident, the two men crossed paths while collecting latex. A verbal altercation quickly escalated, with Mr. Jaroensilp allegedly using offensive language towards Mr. Weera. Enraged, Mr. Weera drew his firearm, one he had reportedly been carrying in anticipation of such a confrontation and fired three shots, instantly killing his neighbour. Pol Col Chaiphat Sri Rueang, superintendent of Tham Phannara Police Station, confirmed that the two men had a history of conflicts regarding their land. The suspect has been charged with homicide and remains in police custody. He has confessed to the crime and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. -- 2025-02-18

UPDATE Driver Identified in Fatal Mercedes-Benz Crash in Nakhon Ratchasima Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal car crash that occurred in the early hours of 17 February in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The incident took place at approximately 04:40, on Mittraphap Road, just before the elevated bridge at the Sam Yaek Pak Thong Chai intersection, heading out of the city. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352006-car-crashes-into-lorry-and-bursts-into-flames-killing-driver-in-nakhon-ratchasima/#findComment-19594107

UPDATE Police Officer Suspended After Smuggling Cigarettes in Major Scandal A police officer from the Second Regional Police Division has been suspended from the force following his involvement in a major illegal cigarette smuggling operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351980-police-pickup-crashes-into-streetlight-revealing-large-haul-of-smuggled-cigarettes/#findComment-19594216

UPDATE Police Officer Suspended After Smuggling Cigarettes in Major Scandal Picture of police order. A police officer from the Second Regional Police Division has been suspended from the force following his involvement in a major illegal cigarette smuggling operation. The officer, identified as Sergeant Major Ekkapoj, was found guilty of smuggling contraband cigarettes, a serious violation of both law and the professional code of conduct. Authorities launched an investigation into his activities after receiving credible information about his involvement in the illegal trade, which has been linked to a broader network of smugglers operating in the region. The decision to dismiss the officer was confirmed today by the Second Regional Police Division, who acted swiftly after completing their internal investigation. The police statement emphasised that such actions are unacceptable and violate the principles of integrity and trust that the force upholds. In response to the incident, a spokesperson from the police department stated, “The actions of Sergeant Major Ekkapoj are deeply regrettable. The police force is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and will take appropriate action against anyone found to be involved in illegal activities.” The smuggling ring that the officer was implicated in reportedly imported large quantities of contraband cigarettes, evading customs duties and taxes. The operation caused significant financial damage to the state, with authorities now working to track down other members of the network. The officer’s dismissal is part of a broader crackdown on corruption within the police force, as the department aims to restore public confidence and ensure that its members adhere to strict ethical guidelines. Further investigations are expected as more individuals involved in the smuggling operation are identified, with the authorities promising to continue their efforts to dismantle illicit trade networks and uphold justice. -- 2025-02-17

UPDATE Driver Identified in Fatal Mercedes-Benz Crash in Nakhon Ratchasima Picture from responders. Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal car crash that occurred in the early hours of 17 February in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The incident took place at approximately 04:40, on Mittraphap Road, just before the elevated bridge at the Sam Yaek Pak Thong Chai intersection, heading out of the city. A Mercedes-Benz sedan collided with the rear of a truck transporting recyclable paper, resulting in a fire that engulfed the car and claimed the life of the driver. Rescue teams from Hook 31 Nakhon Ratchasima and officers from Pho Klang Police Station responded promptly to the scene. Due to the intensity of the blaze, it took several hours to clear the wreckage. At around 11:00 on 17 February, officials employed heavy machinery to remove the debris. Family members of the deceased arrived at the site and, upon confirming the identity of their loved one from the car, were overcome with grief; some fainted and required assistance from local volunteers. The victim has been identified as Mr. Thatchai, also known as “Bank”, aged 35. He served as the head supervisor for a team contracted to install lighting systems for the Motorway No. 6 (M6) project, specifically the Bang Pa-in–Nakhon Ratchasima route. Preliminary reports indicate that Mr. Thatchai had been returning home after escorting his girlfriend to Khon Kaen province. The cash occurred approximately 4 kilometers from his residence near Save One Market in Nakhon Ratchasima. The truck involved was en route to a factory in Prachinburi province, transporting recyclable paper. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision. -- 2025-02-17

Siriraj Hospital Treats 300kg Woman for Severe Obesity and Breathing Difficulties A 36-year-old woman weighing over 300kg has been admitted to Siriraj Hospital for urgent medical care on 16 February, after experiencing severe breathing difficulties. A specialist medical team from the hospital’s Obesity Care Centre has been assembled to assess her condition and determine the best course of treatment Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352011-siriraj-hospital-treats-300kg-woman-for-severe-obesity-and-breathing-difficulties/

Pictures from responders. A 36-year-old woman weighing over 300kg has been admitted to Siriraj Hospital for urgent medical care on 16 February, after experiencing severe breathing difficulties. A specialist medical team from the hospital’s Obesity Care Centre has been assembled to assess her condition and determine the best course of treatment. The woman was transferred to Siriraj Hospital at approximately 10:30 from Somdet Phra Sangharaja Chao Hospital in Ayutthaya. Due to her size, emergency medical personnel used a special sliding bed truck and worked alongside rescue workers and hospital staff to carefully lift and transport her to hospital. Dr Yongyuth Siriwattana-Aksorn, Director of Siriraj Hospital, stated that the patient endured some discomfort during transportation, as she had to remain in a prone position for the entire journey. However, her vital signs remained stable with the help of oxygen support. Despite her condition, she appeared relieved and optimistic about receiving treatment at the hospital. Siriraj Hospital has extensive experience treating patients with extreme obesity. The woman’s case will be managed holistically, with specialists from various fields collaborating to create a tailored treatment plan. Dr Worabut Thaweerujjana, Chairman of the Siriraj Metabolic Obesity Centre and a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine at Mahidol University, explained that the woman suffers from severe obesity, a rare and complex condition. Patients in this category often experience respiratory problems and cardiovascular complications. This particular patient has a history of cardiac arrest, having suffered an episode two years ago. The treatment process will be divided into two phases. The first phase, lasting one to two months, will focus on a comprehensive health assessment, including blood tests, cardiac and pulmonary evaluations, sleep studies, and gastrointestinal examinations. The patient will also receive physical therapy, dietary management, and controlled exercise to strengthen her body and achieve initial weight loss. The second phase will involve bariatric surgery to reduce stomach size and shorten the intestines, a procedure expected to take six to twelve months for full effectiveness. Siriraj Hospital, a leader in robotic-assisted surgery, will employ this advanced technique to ensure precision and safety, given the patient’s significant abdominal fat. Previous cases have demonstrated the success of such an approach. A similar patient weighing 320kg was treated at Siriraj Hospital and managed to reduce their weight to 90kg within a year. Before surgery, the patient had suffered from diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea, all of which resolved following treatment. Dr Yongyuth emphasised that psychological support would also be an essential part of the treatment plan, as many severely obese patients suffer from low self-esteem and social isolation. A thorough medical checklist will be conducted to identify any undiagnosed conditions and prevent further complications. The patient is receiving treatment under Thailand’s Universal Health Coverage scheme, ensuring that her care will be covered within the national healthcare system. Any additional expenses may be supported through social welfare programmes or other financial aid initiatives. The patient’s mother, 61-year-old Pranee Somchan, shared her concerns about her daughter’s condition. She revealed that her daughter had been diagnosed with obesity during a previous hospital visit but had kept her worsening condition a secret from family members. “She stopped being able to walk a few months ago, but she refused to let anyone know,” Pranee said, her voice trembling. “Only her husband and father were helping her, but when she could no longer bear it, she finally told me. I immediately arranged for medical help.” Pranee noted that her daughter had been overweight since childhood but gained excessive weight in the past few years. Despite repeated warnings from family members, the condition worsened, particularly due to her mother’s frequent absences while running a business in Bangkok. Now, seeing her daughter in the hands of expert medical professionals, Pranee feels reassured and urges other parents to be vigilant about their children’s health. “If your child is showing signs of severe obesity, seek medical advice as soon as possible,” she said. “Don’t wait until it’s too late.” The medical team at Siriraj Hospital remains hopeful that, with proper care and intervention, the patient will be able to regain her health and significantly reduce her weight, improving her quality of life in the long run. -- 2025-02-17

Car Crashes into Lorry and Bursts into Flames, Killing Driver in Nakhon Ratchasima An incident in the early hours of the morning of 17 February, claimed the life of a driver when a car crashed into the back of a 10-wheel lorry carrying paper, causing the vehicle to burst into flames. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352006-car-crashes-into-lorry-and-bursts-into-flames-killing-driver-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

Pictures from responders. An incident in the early hours of the morning of 17 February, claimed the life of a driver when a car crashed into the back of a 10-wheel lorry, registered in Ubon Ratchathani, carrying paper, causing the vehicle to burst into flames. The collision occurred at approximately 04:40 on the bypass road leading from Chor Hor district, at the intersection junction for Nakhon Ratchasima and Saraburi. The Mercedes had approached from behind and slammed into the lorru at high speed. Upon impact, the car was engulfed in fire, trapping the driver inside. Emergency services, including firefighters and rescue personnel, rushed to the scene to extinguish the blaze and retrieve the victim. However, the fire had already consumed most of the vehicle by the time responders arrived, making rescue efforts impossible. The driver, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, was dead at the scene, with the badly charred body found still in the remains of the driving seat. Police and forensic teams are investigating the cause of the crash, examining whether factors such as driver fatigue, or poor visibility may have played a role. The ICE powered Mercedes-Benz, had no gas conversion, but details of the exact model and registration, was not available, due to the damage. The lorry driver, who was unharmed, was taken in for questioning to provide further details about the moments leading up to the collision. Authorities are urging motorists to drive with caution, particularly during early morning hours when visibility is low and fatigue-related crashes are more common. -- 2025-02-17

Vehicle Plunges into the Sea at Map Ta Phut Pier, Search for Missing Driver A rescue operation took place overnight, at Map Ta Phut Pier after a pick-up truck plunged into the sea at 23.30 on 16 February. The driver is believed to have been inside the vehicle when it sank, and emergency teams have worked all night, to locate both the missing person and the submerged truck. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352001-vehicle-plunges-into-the-sea-at-map-ta-phut-pier-search-for-missing-driver/

Pictures from responders. A rescue operation took place overnight, at Map Ta Phut Pier after a pick-up truck plunged into the sea at 23.30 on 16 February. The driver is believed to have been inside the vehicle when it sank, and emergency teams have worked all night, to locate both the missing person and the submerged truck. The incident occurred near a cooling water drainage canal behind the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate. Witnesses reported seeing a Nissan pick-up truck speeding before crashing into a lamppost and breaking through a metal guardrail, eventually plummeting into the water. When rescue teams arrived at the scene, they discovered vehicle debris, including a number plate and a section of the front grille, scattered along the shoreline. Skid marks and damage to the concrete embankment suggested a high-impact collision before the vehicle entered the water. Initial search efforts were hampered by strong currents and rough sea conditions, making it difficult for divers. Authorities believe the truck may have been swept towards a sluice gate before drifting into the open sea. Seven rescue boats and jet skis have been deployed, along with sonar equipment, in an attempt to pinpoint the vehicle’s location. As of the morning of 17 February, rescue teams continue to search the area, with officials urging local fishermen and boat operators to report any sightings that could aid in the recovery operation. The search for the missing driver remains a top priority, with authorities also committed to recovering the vehicle and determining the full circumstances of the incident. -- 2025-02-17

Japanese Businessman Dead as Van Crashes Into Toll Booth on Burapha Withi Expressway A crash occurred on the Burapha Withi Expressway at 12:05, on 16th February, when a black Toyota van crashed into a toll booth, resulting in the death of a Japanese businessman and leaving the driver critically injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351987-japanese-businessman-dead-as-van-crashes-into-toll-booth-on-burapha-withi-expressway/

Pictures from responders and CCTV. A crash occurred on the Burapha Withi Expressway at 12:05, on 16th February, when a black Toyota van crashed into a toll booth, resulting in the death of a Japanese businessman and leaving the driver critically injured. The incident took place at the Bang Phli 1 toll plaza on the inbound side towards Bangkok, at kilometre 11 in Samut Prakan province. Authorities believe the driver, identified as 38-year-old Phairoj, may have fallen asleep at the wheel. The van struck a concrete support pillar of the toll booth with great force, severely damaging the vehicle. Emergency responders were quick to the scene, using cutting equipment to extricate the driver, who was trapped in the wreckage. Phairoj was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Inside the van, emergency workers found the body of 57-year-old Soichi, a Japanese businessman and president of a steel manufacturing company based in Chonburi. He was seated in the front passenger seat and was pronounced dead at the scene. Security camera footage of the crash revealed that the van was travelling at high speed, with no signs of braking or slowing down before impact. Authorities suspect that the driver fell asleep, leading to the fatal collision. Investigations are ongoing, and the body of the deceased has been sent to Ramathibodi Chakri Narubodin Hospital for further examination. -- 2025-02-17

Man Bludgeoned to Death in Front of His Children, Suspect Arrested in Ayutthaya A manhunt has ended in the swift arrest of a 28-year-old suspect who brutally bludgeoned his friend to death with a hammer in front of the victim’s two young children in Ayutthaya. The shocking attack, which occurred in the early hours of 16th February, left the victim, 42-year-old Phichat Phayayot, dead at the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351985-man-bludgeoned-to-death-in-front-of-his-children- suspect-arrested-in-ayutthaya/

Picture from responders. A manhunt has ended in the swift arrest of a 28-year-old suspect who brutally bludgeoned his friend to death with a hammer in front of the victim’s two young children in Ayutthaya. The shocking attack, which occurred in the early hours of 16th February, left the victim, 42-year-old Phichat Phayayot, dead at the scene. The suspect, identified as Chalermwong, known as ‘Kong’, was apprehended later that day at a house in Sena district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Police took him into custody for questioning at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station. He faces charges of murder and theft, having allegedly stolen two mobile phones from the victim’s home after the attack. The horrific incident took place at approximately 03:00. According to Phichat’s 10-year-old daughter, the suspect broke into their home, wielded a hammer, and struck her father twice on the head as she and her eight-year-old brother watched in terror. Despite being threatened to remain silent, the girl bravely called her aunt, Lalita Phayayot, for help. Upon arriving, Lalita found the children in shock and their father lying in a pool of blood. Investigators revealed that Phichat and the suspect had been long-time acquaintances. The night before the attack, they had an argument, though no further confrontation was reported until the assault. Relatives of both men have spoken about their strained relationship, with the suspect’s sister suggesting that the dispute stemmed from allegations of theft. Police sources indicate that Chalermwong had accused Phichat of stealing wrought iron from his home, leading to escalating tensions. The suspect’s sister stated that he had previously expressed violent thoughts but had never acted on them. The victim’s brother, meanwhile, expressed relief at the suspect’s quick arrest, fearing that had he remained at large, the children’s safety would have been at risk. Phichat’s children, now orphaned as their mother had left the family years ago, will be cared for by relatives. The victim’s body has been sent for forensic examination in Pathum Thani. -- 2025-02-17