Five Killed as Passenger Van Hits Truck in Tak

Five people were killed and nine others injured after a passenger van crashed into the rear of a ten-wheeled truck in Tak province on 6 April 2026. The collision occurred at approximately 2:40 p.m. on Highway 12 along the Mae Sot–Tak road in the Mae Tho area of Mueang Tak district. Emergency responders confirmed five fatalities at the scene, including the driver and multiple passengers were taken to hospital with injuries ranging from minor to critical.

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Police said the van, operating on the Tak–Mae Sot route, was driven by 72-year-old Nikom Kawi Na, who died at the scene. The vehicle struck the right rear of a parked truck driven by 42-year-old Wichet Manikhom from Chiang Mai. The truck had reportedly been pulled over on the left side of the road while the driver crossed to purchase items and was returning to his vehicle.

Rescue teams and local residents worked to extract injured passengers from the wreckage, with some requiring CPR and defibrillator use at the scene. Despite efforts, five people, two men and three women, were pronounced dead at the site. One of the victims was a newly appointed nurse at Somdej Phra Chao Taksin Maharaj Hospital, who had only started work on 1 April 2026.

Seven passengers sustained minor injuries, while two were reported to be in critical condition. All injured individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment. The impact severely damaged the front of the van, trapping several occupants and complicating rescue operations.

Witnesses reported that the van had been swerving before the crash, raising the possibility that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. Authorities have not confirmed the cause and are continuing a full investigation, including forensic examination of the vehicles and road conditions.

Amarin reported that police are working to formally identify all victims and notify their families. Further updates are expected as the ongoing investigation progresses and the condition of those injured continues to be monitored.

Picture courtesy of Responders

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 7 Apr 2026