Phuket woman held after mother-in-law beheaded at home

A 36-year-old woman has been detained following the death of her 74-year-old mother-in-law at a house in Chalong, Phuket, on 1 August 2026.

Police said the two women had been involved in a serious argument inside the home before the older woman was attacked with a knife. A neighbour reportedly witnessed the incident and alerted police.

The victim, identified as Chantra, 74, was found dead inside the property with multiple wounds from a sharp object. There was a large amount of blood on the floor, police said.

Suspect found in bathroom

Pol Maj Charuwit Khunchareon, an investigating officer at Chalong Police Station, received the murder report at 9.15am. He informed Pol Col Surasak Jaidee, superintendent of Chalong Police Station, before travelling to the scene with officers and relevant agencies.

Initial inquiries indicated that Chantra had been at home with her daughter-in-law, Sriwan, 36, when the pair began arguing intensely.

Police said Sriwan allegedly assaulted Chantra, causing her to fall, before using a knife to inflict injuries to her body and face. Investigators said the victim was then decapitated during the attack.

When officers arrived, they found Sriwan hiding in the house bathroom and took her into custody immediately. She was later taken for legal proceedings.

Forensic examination under way

Investigators, forensic officers and an on-duty doctor examined the scene and carried out an initial examination at the house.

Police are continuing to establish the cause of the dispute and the motive for the killing before proceeding with the case under Thai law.

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath

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2 August 2026