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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Two women have died and another remains in critical condition following a head-on collision between a motorcycle and a pickup truck in Kanchanaburi province. The incident occurred around 16:30 on 11 May near the entrance to the Thai Food chicken factory in Moo 4, U Loke Si Muen sub-district, Tha Maka district. According to police from Tha Ruea Station, the victims were all Myanmar nationals, believed to be between 20 and 30 years old. They had been riding on a single motorcycle against the flow of traffic, with three people on board. Two women were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third woman sustained serious injuries and was rushed to hospital by rescue personnel from the Khun Rattanawut Foundation. Emergency responders found a heavily damaged black Yamaha motorcycle lying at the roadside. Nearby, a black Ford pickup truck, identified as the other vehicle involved, was parked with significant front-end damage. The male driver of the pickup told officers he had been en route to a sugarcane field when the motorcycle suddenly appeared, travelling the wrong way. He claimed his view had been obscured by another vehicle that was stopped, waiting to make a U-turn. As a result, he said, he was unable to see the motorbike in time to avoid the collision. Police have recorded the scene and taken the pickup driver in for further questioning to determine the full circumstances of the crash. A formal investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated that legal proceedings will follow as appropriate. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-13.

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UPDATE Toxic Gases Detected in Major Furniture Factory Fire, Nearby Residents Urged to Evacuate Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has detected several hazardous gases following a large fire at a furniture warehouse on Chalong Krung Soi 55 in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district. The blaze, which broke out in a single-storey storage facility containing plastic kitchen furniture and sink cabinets, poses a serious environmental and health risk to nearby communities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360411-blaze-rages-all-night-at-bangkok-furniture-factory/#findComment-19796159

UPDATE Toxic Gases Detected in Major Furniture Factory Fire, Nearby Residents Urged to Evacuate Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has detected several hazardous gases following a large fire at a furniture warehouse on Chalong Krung Soi 55 in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district. The blaze, which broke out in a single-storey storage facility containing plastic kitchen furniture and sink cabinets, poses a serious environmental and health risk to nearby communities. Authorities report that the warehouse contained approximately 300,000 kilograms of plastic pellets, which acted as fuel for the rapidly spreading fire. Two warehouses, including a basement storage level, were affected. Dense black smoke billowed into the air as firefighters continued efforts to control the flames. The PCD conducted air quality tests using chemical vapour detection equipment at seven monitoring points within a five-kilometre radius between 11:55 and 1:00 on 12 May. The findings were alarming: 1. Community areas upto 5km downwind: Tests in areas including Thiwphai Pattana Community, Thong Samrit School/Temple, Flora Ville Village, Thippawas Temple, and Sapcharoen Village revealed trace amounts of toxic substances such as formaldehyde, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, phosgene, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like methyl mercaptan and vinyl chloride. These were detected in low concentrations, not expected to cause immediate respiratory harm. 2. Locations within 150 metres of the fire: At Lio Village and alongside the warehouse in Soi Chalong Krung 55, residents reported a strong burning plastic odour. Chemical levels here were considerably higher, with formaldehyde, methyl mercaptan, and phosgene reaching concentrations capable of causing acute respiratory irritation. Small amounts of VOCs including vinyl chloride and ethylbenzene were also detected. 3. Fire zone: Personnel operating at the fire site were instructed to wear full protective gear and chemical filter masks due to the persistent release of toxic smoke from burning plastic materials. Given the ongoing fire and smoke hazards, residents within a 200-metre radius were advised to evacuate. The Lat Krabang District Office has set up an emergency command centre and established a temporary shelter at Lamphaong School (Ratjamroen Bamrung). The PCD has issued the following safety guidelines: • Residents in affected areas should immediately relocate to upwind zones with clean air. • Individuals experiencing skin or eye irritation should rinse affected areas thoroughly with clean water for several minutes. • Medical attention is advised for those suffering from severe symptoms. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and work to fully extinguish the fire. The fire is contained, but responders can’t access the smouldering areas, due the collapse of much of the structure. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-12.

UPDATE Families Devastated After Four Found Murdered and Burned in Plantation Picture courtesy of Amarin The families of four men who were brutally murdered and burned in an oil palm plantation are in deep shock and grief, particularly the relatives of Mr. Anan Tochonok, known locally as “Ko Piak”, one of the victims in a horrifying crime that has shocked the community. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360408-manhunt-underway-after-3-victims-burnt-in-trang-tyre-fire-killing/#findComment-19795962

UPDATE Families Devastated After Four Found Murdered and Burned in Plantation Picture courtesy of Amarin The families of four men who were brutally murdered and burned in an oil palm plantation are in deep shock and grief, particularly the relatives of Mr. Anan Tochonok, known locally as “Ko Piak”, one of the victims in a horrifying crime that has shocked the community. Authorities have now confirmed that there were four victims, including Ko Piak aged 50, all had been shot with various firearms and burned using car tyres in an attempt to conceal the crime. The bodies were discovered in a palm plantation in Moo 1, Kala Se Subdistrict, Sikao District, Trang Province, in the early hours of 11 May. The fourth body, was found buried nearby and believed to have been dead for over two weeks. Ko Piak, a general technician for a local agricultural firm, was not known to have any enemies. Family members insist he was likely an innocent party who became caught up in the events while assisting others. His niece-in-law, Ms. Jutamas Chanjarung, 39, recounted Ko Piak’s last known movements. On 9 May, he left his home in Lan Saka District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, at around 07:00 with his two children, heading to pick up gardening equipment before continuing to a durian plantation in Saai Khao Subdistrict, Krabi Province. At around 16:00, Mr. Surachet Luankiatkajorn, known as “Ko Chet”, a 69-year-old plantation manager, phoned Ko Piak. Roughly an hour later, Ko Piak failed to return to collect his assistants at the durian farm. His sister tried to call him around 19:00, but his phone was off, initially not alarming, but by 20:30, when he still hadn’t returned home, family members grew concerned. They began checking hospitals and police stations. Eventually, around 01:00, they called Sikao Police Station and were informed of the gruesome discovery. “We were devastated,” said Ms. Jutamas, “Ko Piak was the youngest in the family, a quiet man without enemies.” Mr. Kiettisak Prikprasong, 29, one of Ko Piak’s assistants, confirmed he had stayed behind at the durian plantation. He said Ko Piak had told him to finish the work while he and two others went to the palm plantation in Trang. “Ko Piak was supposed to return by 17:00, but he never did,” he said. “We feared something had gone terribly wrong.” Police are investigating the case and are working to establish the motive behind the attack. Some reports suggest it may be linked to disputes over agricultural produce, including missing palm oil, though the families claim they were unaware of any such conflicts. For now, grieving relatives are left waiting to reclaim their loved ones’ bodies and praying for justice. The families of all four victims have called on the police to pursue the case thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-12.

3 Dead, 4 Children Seriously Injured After Pickup Truck Plunges Over 200 Metres into Ravine Pictures courtesy of Matichon. An incident occurred on the afternoon of 11 May, in Chiang Rai province when a pickup truck driver veered off the road and plunged into a ravine more than 200 metres deep, killing three people and seriously injuring four children. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360424-3-dead-4-children-seriously-injured-after-pickup-truck-plunges-over-200-metres-into-ravine/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. An incident occurred on the afternoon of 11 May, in Chiang Rai province when a pickup truck driver veered off the road and plunged into a ravine more than 200 metres deep, killing three people and seriously injuring four children. The incident took place at approximately 15:30 near Ban Rom Pho Thai, Moo 9, in Tap Tao sub-district, Thoeng district. Initial reports indicate the vehicle lost control on a mountainous stretch of road before careening down the steep drop. Emergency services rushed to the scene, where six people were found trapped inside the wreckage. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, while nearby residents and relatives quickly assisted in transporting the injured to Thoeng Hospital. Rescue workers from the Saeng Tham Satharanakosol Foundation in Chiang Rai, in coordination with the Sawang Phayao Rescue Unit and other emergency teams, used cutting equipment to extricate the victims from the mangled vehicle. Sadly, two more victims later succumbed to their injuries at the hospital, bringing the total number of fatalities to three. The remaining four injured are all children, currently receiving urgent medical treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and reminded drivers that mountain roads can be treacherous. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-12.

UPDATE Police Chief Condemns Brutal Attack on Officer at Songkhla Polling Station Picture courtesy of Khaosod. National police chief has issued a firm condemnation after a border patrol officer was viciously beaten at a polling station in Songkhla province, vowing that all perpetrators will face the full force of the law. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/#findComment-19795480

UPDATE Police Chief Condemns Brutal Attack on Officer at Songkhla Polling Station Picture courtesy of Khaosod. National police chief has issued a firm condemnation after a border patrol officer was viciously beaten at a polling station in Songkhla province, vowing that all perpetrators will face the full force of the law. Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, described the attack as “brazen and lawless” after Pol. Sgt. Maj. Nisathit Kongthep, of Border Patrol Police Company 43, was assaulted while on duty during municipal council and mayoral elections in Phawong subdistrict. The incident took place at polling station no. 7 in Moo 2 of Mueang district, when Sgt. Maj. Nisathit intervened to stop a group of individuals from taking photographs inside the station, an act prohibited under Thailand’s electoral laws. It later emerged that the person taking photos was a member of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO), who was accompanied by a group of followers. According to reports, tempers flared when the officer warned the group that photography was not permitted. A mob of five to seven men then attacked Sgt. Maj. Nisathit, before fleeing the scene. He is currently recovering at Songkhla Hospital. Pol. Gen. Kittirat has ordered a swift and thorough investigation, assigning the Songkhla provincial police chief to personally oversee the case. He has also instructed special operations teams to crack down on any influential figures or groups attempting to act above the law. “This type of lawless behaviour will not be tolerated,” said the police chief. “It does not matter who the perpetrators are, everyone must be held accountable. No one has the right to place themselves above the law.” He also confirmed that the investigation will explore whether the attackers are linked to any broader criminal activity. Authorities have been tasked with collecting evidence quickly and preparing legal proceedings against all involved. In addition, Pol. Gen. Kittirat has dispatched senior officers to provide support to the injured officer and has demanded full legal action be pursued without delay. “This incident is a stark reminder that respect for the rule of law is essential in a democratic society,” he added. “Anyone who dares defy it will be met with strong and decisive justice.” The investigation is ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-12.

UPDATE Lat Krabang Residents Urged to Wear Masks Amid Toxic Smoke from Furniture Factory Fire Picture from responders. Residents of Lat Krabang and surrounding areas have been advised to wear protective masks due to lingering toxic smoke from the major fire at a furniture factory in Soi Chalong Krung 55. The fire, which broke out on the evening of 11 May, has since been brought under partial control, but as of the morning of 12 May, heavy smoke continued to blanket nearby communities. At approximately 08:00, the Lat Krabang District Office issued a public warning, urging residents to wear face masks to protect themselves from hazardous fumes and particulate matter still present in the air. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej visited the scene overnight to monitor the situation. She confirmed that large volumes of smoke had spread into surrounding communities, affecting residents with strong odours and fine dust. Local health concerns have grown as a result. Bangkok Metropolitan Council Chairman Dr. Surachit Phongsingwittaya, along with Deputy Permanent Secretary of Bangkok Narong Ruangsri, also inspected the site on the morning of 12;May. They instructed all relevant agencies to expedite damage assessments and provide urgent assistance to those impacted by the fire, especially in matters of health and environmental safety. Temporary shelters have been established for affected residents in the vicinity of the factory at the following locations: Lam Phra Ong School Wat Thippawas School Wat Thippawas Community Child Development Centre Lat Krabang Industrial Estate Office Auditorium Emergency response teams are continuing to monitor air quality and provide support. Residents are urged to remain cautious and follow official safety guidance until the situation is fully under control. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-12.

Fortuner Driver Killed Instantly After Crashing into Power Pole in Nakhon Sawan Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A man was killed instantly on the morning of 11 May. after his black Toyota Fortuner veered off a bend and crashed into a power pole in Mueang district, Nakhon Sawan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360413-fortuner-driver-killed-instantly-after-crashing-into-power-pole-in-nakhon-sawan/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A man was killed instantly on the morning of 11 May. after his black Toyota Fortuner veered off a bend and crashed into a power pole in Mueang district, Nakhon Sawan province. Police and rescue officials were called to the scene of the accident at approximately 06:30. The incident occurred on the Nakhon Sawan–Ban Kaeng Road in front of the Iceland Project Village 8, Wat Sai subdistrict. Investigators from Mueang Nakhon Sawan Police Station, along with rescue workers from the Guan Yu Foundation and medical personnel from Sawanpracharak Hospital, arrived to find the SUV badly wrecked. The vehicle had struck the pole with such force that it crumpled into a V-shape, leaving the driver trapped and deceased inside. Police identified the driver as Mr. Natthakankorn Thong-aramthitichot, 41. CCTV footage reviewed by officers showed the Fortuner travelling at high speed before the drive failed to negotiate a curve in the road, crashing directly into the pole. Pol Col Sedthawut Rodchan, superintendent of Mueang Nakhon Sawan Police Station, stated that initial investigations suggest the driver may not have been familiar with the route. The curve where the crash occurred is known to be visually deceptive, possibly contributing to the fatal loss of control. The body was later removed from the wreckage and taken to Sawanpracharak Hospital for further examination. Police continue to investigate the exact circumstances of the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-12.

Blaze Rages all Night at Bangkok Furniture Factory Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A massive fire at a Bangkok furniture factory has yet to be brought under control, prompting city authorities to establish an emergency command centre near the scene amid fears the building could collapse. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360411-blaze-rages-all-night-at-bangkok-furniture-factory/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A massive fire at a Bangkok furniture factory has yet to be brought under control, prompting city authorities to establish an emergency command centre near the scene amid fears the building could collapse. The blaze, which broke out on the evening of 11 May, engulfed the KING furniture factory (operated by Siam House & Home Co. Ltd.) located in Soi Chalong Krung 55, Lat Krabang district. The site is a two-storey facility with an elevated structure and a basement used for storing materials and finished products. Firefighters and rescue workers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation attempted to access the basement, where the fire is believed to have originated, but were forced back by extreme heat and thick smoke. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt assigned Surachit Phongsingwitaya, Chair of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council, and Tharapong Phetkhong, Director of Lat Krabang District Office, to oversee the situation. A command centre has been set up at nearby Lampahong School to coordinate the response. Initial damage assessments have yet to be completed. Once the fire is under control, officials from Lat Krabang district and Chalong Krung police will investigate the cause and calculate the cost of the destruction. Mr Surachit confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far, as the fire broke out on a public holiday when the factory was unoccupied. He added that the facility contained a significant quantity of flammable materials, including plywood, plastic pellets, pallets and export-ready furniture, which likely fuelled the fire. “The fire seems to have started in the lower level, but the heat and smoke have made it impossible for teams to access the basement,” Surachit said. “Smoke continues to billow from the structure, and the temperature remains dangerously high.” Bangkok officials have deployed multiple appliances and LUF 60 remote-controlled fire-fighting vehicles to the scene. Firefighters are working to bring the situation under control, although Surachit warned that the dense stockpile of flammable materials in the basement is making the task especially difficult. “We are aiming to resolve the situation, but the risk of structural collapse is growing due to the intense heat trapped inside,” he added. Residents from several nearby housing estates have temporarily gathered outside their homes due to the thick, acrid smoke and radiating heat from the blaze, caused largely by the burning plastic materials stored within the factory, but have not needed to be evacuated yet. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-12.

Son of Prominent MP Sparks Violence at Songkhla Polling Station Picture courtesy of Amarin An incident disrupted the voting process in Songkhla Province afternoon of 11 May, when the son of a well-known Member of Parliament reacted angrily to being told not to take photographs inside a polling booth. The situation escalated when a group of seven men later assaulted a police officer at the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/

Picture courtesy of Amarin An incident disrupted the voting process in Songkhla Province afternoon of 11 May, when the son of a well-known Member of Parliament reacted angrily to being told not to take photographs inside a polling booth. The situation escalated when a group of seven men later assaulted a police officer at the scene. The confrontation took place at Polling Station 7, Moo 2, in the Phawong subdistrict of Songkhla. Reports indicate that the son of a prominent politician attempted to take photographs while voting, an act prohibited under Thai electoral law. When a police officer intervened to prevent the violation, the individual became irate and verbally abused the officer. Approximately 20 minutes after the initial altercation, three pickup trucks arrived at the polling station, carrying a group of young men allegedly affiliated with the MP’s son. They proceeded to physically assault the officer involved, identified as Pol. Sgt. Nisatit Kongthep, a Border Patrol Police officer. The attackers reportedly used chairs to strike the officer, causing injuries to his head, eye and wrist. He is being treated at Songkhla Hospital. Pol. Lt. Col. Somnuek Kunmanee, Director of the Songkhla Provincial Election Commission Office, confirmed the attack and stated that authorities have identified the individuals responsible. Efforts are underway to persuade them to surrender to the police. In addition to this violent incident, two other complaints have been reported in Songkhla during local elections: one involving alleged vote-buying and another concerning the destruction of a ballot paper. Authorities have pledged to conduct thorough investigations into all reported incidents, using available evidence and witness statements. The events have raised serious concerns over election security and the behaviour of individuals connected to political figures, as well as the need for enforcement of electoral laws. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-12.

State Railway Apologises After Young Woman Seriously Injured in Level Crossing Incident Picture of Khaosod. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has issued a formal apology after a 20-year-old woman was left seriously injured when her motorcycle was struck by a train at a level crossing in Chonburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360409-state-railway-apologises-after-young-woman-seriously-injured-in-level-crossing-incident/

Picture of Khaosod. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has issued a formal apology after a 20-year-old woman was left seriously injured when her motorcycle was struck by a train at a level crossing in Chonburi province. The incident occurred at a railway crossing on Soi Khiri Nakhon, Moo 7, Huai Kapi subdistrict, Mueang district, where CCTV footage reportedly showed a barrier lifting after one train had passed, only for a second train to approach almost immediately. As the gate rose, the woman, identified as Ms. Sunisa attempted to cross and was hit by an oncoming freight train. According to the woman’s brother, who brought the incident to the media’s attention, the warning system failed to alert of the second train, leading to the collision. The injured woman was rushed to Chonburi Hospital by the Tri Khunatham Foundation emergency team. The SRT confirmed that the train involved was Freight Service No. 553, running between Map Ta Phut and Bua Yai Junction. Two individuals were reported injured as a result of the crash, which took place at kilometre marker 111+685, between Bang Phra and Chonburi stations. In response, Mr. Veerith Amrapal, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand, expressed his deep regret over the incident. He has ordered the immediate formation of a fact-finding committee to investigate the cause of the malfunction and determine accountability. “I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the injured and their family. The State Railway is committed to a thorough investigation and to providing full support to the victim,” Mr. Veerith said. He also confirmed that SRT staff had been dispatched to Chonburi Hospital on the afternoon of 11 May to monitor the woman’s condition and offer support. The SRT stated it is now in the process of gathering all relevant data, including CCTV footage, warning system logs, and statements from the train crew. The agency emphasised that every detail would be scrutinised transparently to prevent future accidents. “Public safety is the top priority of the State Railway,” Mr. Veerith affirmed, “and we will use this tragic event as a catalyst to strengthen and improve our safety systems.” The SRT also expressed gratitude to all emergency personnel and first responders who acted swiftly at the scene. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-12.

Manhunt Underway After 3 Victims Burnt in Trang Tyre Fire Killing Picture courtesy of Siam News. Police in Trang province have launched an urgent manhunt after three people were found burnt in a grisly “tyre fire” killing in the early hours of the morning of 11 May. The incident occurred in a palm oil plantation in Moo 1, Kalase sub-district, Sikao district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360408-manhunt-underway-after-3-victims-burnt-in-trang-tyre-fire-killing/

Picture courtesy of Siam News. Police in Trang province have launched an urgent manhunt after three people were found burnt in a grisly “tyre fire” killing in the early hours of the morning of 11 May. The incident occurred in a palm oil plantation in Moo 1, Kalase sub-district, Sikao district. At approximately 01:10, Sikao Police Station received reports of a fire involving rubber tyres, with possible fatalities. Officers rushed to the scene and discovered around 10 car tyres ablaze. Once the fire was extinguished, investigators uncovered what appeared to be the charred remains of three human bodies within the flames. Initial investigations have identified the victims as residents of Krabi province, with one named as Mr. Surachet, a foreman taking care of a 170-rai palm plantation. According to police sources, the four suspected perpetrators fled the scene in a stolen vehicle belonging to one of the deceased victims. Police believe the murders may have stemmed from a personal dispute over the management or control of the palm oil plantation. Authorities have already identified the suspects and are actively pursuing them. Forensic teams are continuing to examine the scene, while investigators seek further leads on the whereabouts of the fugitive killers. Adapted by Asean Now from Siam News 2025-05-12.

Giant Rocket Crashes Through Rice Mill Roof in Dramatic Bun Bang Fai Incident Picture courtesy of Amarin. A massive rocket launched during an Isaan Bun Bang Fai festival crashed through the roof of a rice mill warehouse in Maha Sarakham province on Saturday, in a terrifying but injury-free incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360407-giant-rocket-crashes-through-rice-mill-roof-in-dramatic-bun-bang-fai-incident/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A massive rocket launched during an Isaan Bun Bang Fai festival crashed through the roof of a rice mill warehouse in Maha Sarakham province on Saturday, in a terrifying but injury-free incident. The launch took place at Wat Weluwasri, located near Nong Nam Ban Na Lao in Nong Hai sub-district, Wapi Pathum district. The event was part of a traditional northeastern rocket festival held from 8 to 10 May, with multiple launches taking place daily. On the evening of 10 May, the largest rocket of the event, known as a “Bung Fai Sip Lan” (ten-million rocket), was prepared for launch. The first rocket of this type, sponsored by the Nong Hai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, was fired successfully. The second rocket, sponsored by Chokcharoen Rice Mill, soared into the sky to cheers from local spectators. However, the celebrations quickly turned to alarm when it was reported that the rocket had crashed into the roof of Chokcharoen Rice Mill’s warehouse, over one kilometre from the launch site near the water’s edge. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as the rocket struck an unoccupied section of the building. The rice mill, which had sponsored the launch, has yet to file a police report or indicate whether any legal action will be taken. A discussion with the event organisers is expected before a final decision is made. This is not the first serious incident linked to the ten-million rocket. In 2023, another rocket exploded on the launch pad before lift-off, injuring eight people, two of whom required hospitalisation at Wapi Pathum Hospital, while the others received treatment from local medics. The Bun Bang Fai festival remains a vibrant cultural tradition in Thailand’s northeast, but safety concerns continue to mount with each mishap. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-12.

Man 33, Dies After Car Plunges Into Pond – Cash & Gold Found in Vehicle Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A 33-year-old man lost his life during the morning of 11 May, when his black Honda Civic veered off the road and plunged into a pond in Chanthaburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360406-man-33-dies-after-car-plunges-into-pond-–-cash-gold-found-in-vehicle/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A 33-year-old man lost his life during the morning of 11 May, when his black Honda Civic veered off the road and plunged into a pond in Chanthaburi province. The accident occurred on the Nong Khla–Wat Phreng Khayang Road in Moo 2, Song Phi Nong subdistrict, Tha Mai district. Police from Thung Bencha Station and rescue workers from Sawang Katanyu Foundation were called to the scene around 10:00. The vehicle was found overturned and submerged in the water. It took rescue crews over 30 minutes to retrieve the wreckage using a excavator to pull ir from the water. The body of the driver, identified as Mr Apichai was discovered, still strapped in the driver’s seat. Family members arriving at the scene were overcome with grief, with the victim’s mother collapsing in shock upon seeing her son’s body. Initial investigations revealed tyre marks indicating the car driver lost control on a bend, crashing through a barbed-wire fence and concrete pipe before ending up in the pond. Inside the vehicle, officers found a white shoulder bag containing over 400,000 baht in cash, gold jewellery, and a mobile phone. These items were recorded and handed over to the victim’s family. According to Mr Chanaphon, a close friend of the deceased, Mr Apichai worked as a fruit farmer and his family also operated a local curry shop. On the evening of 10 May, around 20:00, he had been discussing plans to take his pregnant wife to a prenatal appointment the following day. He later left to visit an acquaintance in the area but had not returned home by 04:00, prompting concern from his younger brother, who contacted authorities. His whereabouts remained unknown until the submerged vehicle was discovered. Police are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-12.