An 80-year-old man drove a pickup truck into a bank in Mukdahan province on 22 April 2026, injuring three police officers, one of them seriously. The crash occurred at around 11:50 a.m. at a red-light intersection in front of the Nikom Kham Soi District Office. The vehicle ploughed into a Government Savings Bank branch, causing significant damage to property and leaving debris scattered across the scene.
Get today's headlines by email 
Authorities said the Nissan pickup sustained front-end damage after smashing through the bank’s front entrance, shattering glass doors and damaging internal systems. A Vespa motorcycle and a ticket dispensing machine were also destroyed in the collision. Blood stains and spilled engine oil were found on the ground as emergency responders worked to assist the injured.
Witnesses reported that the vehicle crashed violently into the bank without stopping, prompting an immediate response from rescue teams. Three police officers were hurt in the incident, with one officer sustaining serious injuries and being rushed to hospital. The other two officers were also treated for injuries at the scene.
The driver, identified as Mr Banyat, 80, from Nong Nok Khian village in Romklao subdistrict, Nikom Kham Soi district, was taken in for questioning. A breathalyser test showed his blood alcohol concentration was well above the legal limit. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash.
Picture courtesy of ThaiRath
According to the driver’s grandson, Mr Banyat had informed family members before the incident that he intended to drive the vehicle. The pickup was described as being in poor condition and typically used only for farm work, not for driving on main roads. The grandson also noted that his grandfather is usually forgetful, raising concerns about his ability to operate a vehicle safely.
The crash has drawn attention to issues surrounding elderly drivers and road safety, particularly when combined with alcohol use. Authorities have not yet released further details on potential charges but confirmed that legal action will follow once the investigation is complete.
ThaiRath reported that officials are reviewing evidence, including witness statements and possible CCTV footage, to determine the exact cause of the crash. Updates on the condition of the injured police officer have not yet been released.
Related stories
Woman-BMW-driver-reverses-into-tourists-in-Pattaya
Motorcyclist-killed-in-crash-with-songthaew-in-Pattaya
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 24 Apr 2026
Recommended Comments
Create an account or sign in to comment