A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured after being shot in the neck by two teenage suspects in Satuek district, Buriram province, on the night of 19 April 2026. The victim, identified only as “A”, was sitting with three friends by a village roadside when two youths arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire. He was rushed to Buriram Hospital in critical condition.
Get today's headlines by email 
Police said the attack occurred late at night when the suspects approached a group of four teenagers and fired a gun into the group. The bullet struck the victim in the neck, leaving him severely injured. Authorities immediately launched an investigation and began tracking the suspects using CCTV footage.
Officers later arrested two suspects: a 14-year-old boy known as “Boy”, from Chumphon Buri district in Surin and a 15-year-old known as “Kai”, at a residence in the same district. Both were taken to Satuek Police Station for questioning. Police identified “Boy” as the shooter and “Kai” as the motorcycle driver.
During questioning, the 14-year-old admitted to firing the gun at the group. He said the motive stemmed from a prior dispute with youths in the village and claimed he was provoked via Facebook, where someone allegedly challenged him with the message “I want death”. He stated that upon arriving, he believed the group was about to attack him and his friend with knives, prompting him to fire one shot in response.
The suspect also told police he had purchased the firearm online for 2,000 baht. Meanwhile, the 15-year-old driver said he had been invited by his friend and did not expect a shooting to occur. He expressed regret over the incident and apologised to the victim’s family.
Pictures courtesy of Matichon
Police have initially charged both suspects with attempted murder and illegal possession of a firearm under the Firearms Act. Investigators said further charges may depend on the victim’s medical condition. Authorities also plan to summon the parents of both suspects for legal action under the Child Protection Act.
The case highlights concerns over youth violence and access to weapons, particularly involving disputes escalated through social media. Authorities are continuing their investigation while monitoring the victim’s condition closely.
Matichon reported that police will proceed with legal action against the suspects and their parents, while awaiting updates on the victim’s recovery. The outcome of the case may depend on whether the victim’s condition improves or worsens.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 21 Apr 2026
Recommended Comments
Create an account or sign in to comment