Elderly Man’s Body Found Burned by Kiln in Chumphon

An 83-year-old man was found burned by an old clay kiln, behind his home in Lang Suan district, Chumphon, in a case police suspect may involve deliberate destruction of evidence. The discovery shocked relatives and residents after a strong odour led family members to the scene. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.

Get today's headlines by email

Police in Lang Suan were alerted at 13:30 on 14 April 2026 after relatives reported finding human remains inside a disused kiln next to a house in Moo 5, Khan Ngoen subdistrict. The kiln had previously been used for burning coconuts but had long been abandoned. Officers, forensic specialists and a doctor from Lang Suan Hospital attended the scene.

Inside the kiln, investigators found charred human remains emitting a strong smell, causing distress among relatives and locals. The victim is believed to be Charoen Srinak, aged 83, the homeowner. Initial findings suggest the body had been burned severely, with only partial remains left and that death is believed to have occurred several days before discovery.

Authorities noted suspicious evidence at the scene, including traces of palm tree fuel that appeared to have been added repeatedly, suggesting the fire may have been reignited multiple times. This has led investigators to consider the possibility of deliberate burning to conceal evidence. However, no signs of a struggle, forced entry or theft were found inside the house and no drag marks were detected between the house and the kiln, located around 10 metres away.

Police have begun collecting forensic evidence and interviewing the victim’s son and other close contacts. The remains have been sent for detailed forensic examination to try to confirm identity and determine the exact cause of death. Investigators are also reviewing possible personal conflicts, examining nearby CCTV footage and analysing communication records linked to individuals connected to the victim.

The Daily News reported that the case remains unresolved, with several unanswered questions. Authorities have stated that no lines of inquiry have been ruled out and that a full investigation is underway to establish the truth and identify any suspects.

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 16 Apr 2026