The incident occurred at a cockfighting training arena in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, as a man, Mr. Rungroj (surname withheld), 41, was found dead, shocking his family and girlfriend. Police were alerted at 10:00, with investigators and medical personnel from Nakhon Pathom Hospital promptly arriving at the scene to investigate the case.

 

The location, a chicken coop arena with a large circular enclosure, was  cordoned off by police. Inside, they discovered Mr. Rungroj sitting on a sofa, his body covered in blood. He was found with a gunshot wound to the right temple from a 9mm pistol, which was still in his right hand. Nearby was his motorcycle, a Honda Wave registered in Nakhon Pathom.

 

The man’s mother, Mrs. Samniang, 69, described her son as a quiet, reserved individual who worked at a nearby metal-plating factory. She was shocked by the news, saying, “He never hinted at any problems or distress.” Mrs. Samniang added that she was unaware of how he obtained the firearm.

 

Mr. Kae, 75, the first to discover the body, recounted his last moments with Mr. Rungroj. That morning, Mr. Rungroj had ridden his motorcycle to the training grounds, where they casually chatted before parting ways. Minutes later, Mr. Kae heard a gunshot and, horrified, returned to find his friend bleeding.

 

In tears, Mr. Rungroj’s girlfriend, Ms. Uraiwan, 40, arrived at the scene. She explained that they had been together for over five years and described him as usually cheerful and friendly. Recently, however, he had become more withdrawn, but he never opened up about any personal struggles.

 

Police have yet to determine the cause of the incident, considering various possibilities, including personal issues, health concerns, or financial problems. 

 

Further investigation is ongoing.

 

If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek help.

 

Picture from responders.

-- 2024-10-27