Teen Killed by Falling Sports Centre Gate in Krabi

A 15-year-old boy has died after being crushed by a falling steel gate at an outdoor municipal sports centre in Plai Phraya district, Krabi. The teenager had just told his mother he was on his way home and said “love you” shortly before the fatal incident. He was later pronounced dead at hospital, leaving his family devastated.

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According to Mayor Supoj Boonyang of Plai Phraya Municipality, the incident occurred at around 1.40am and was captured on CCTV. Footage shows a group of at least 10 teenage boys entering the sports facility, where some played football while others pulled at netting and kicked protective padding on the structure. Their actions appeared playful but caused strain to the equipment.

The victim had left the sports area and was sitting on a motorcycle outside, waiting for friends to join him. As the last boy exited, he forcefully pushed a large sliding steel gate measuring approximately five metres long and three metres high. The gate, weighing around 100 kilograms collapsed onto the seated boy, causing fatal injuries.

Mayor Supoj expressed deep condolences to the family, stating the facility was intended to promote exercise and keep youth away from drugs. He said initial findings suggest the gate failed due to improper use and misuse, as seen in the CCTV footage. Authorities have since ordered immediate inspections of all sports equipment under municipal responsibility, with damaged or unsafe items to be repaired or removed.

Police are continuing to collect evidence and interview witnesses to determine the exact cause and whether further legal action is required. The tragedy has raised concerns about safety measures at public facilities and the need for stricter supervision and maintenance.

Daily New reported that the boy’s mother revealed she had woken at midnight and called her son when he had not returned home. He told her he was at the municipal grounds and would be home soon, ending the call with “love you”. Shortly afterwards, she received a call informing her he had been taken to hospital, where she later learned he had died.

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 18 Apr 2026