Man Shot Dead Outside Nightclub in Khon Kaen, Gunman Believed to Have Fled Abroad

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

A heated argument outside a nightclub in Khon Kaen escalated into violence early morning on December 26, leaving a 28-year-old man dead. Authorities believe the suspected shooter has fled the country.

 

The incident occurred at approximately 01:30 in front of a popular entertainment venue in Chum Phae district, Khon Kaen. CCTV footage from a nearby used car dealership captured the moment a group of individuals exited the nightclub and began an altercation near the entrance. Moments later, gunshots rang out, and a man in a black shirt was seen firing a handgun before fleeing the scene.

 

The victim, identified as Kritsada, also known as Rang, aged 28, sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the torso. Bystanders rushed him to Chum Phae Hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries around 05:00 in the morning.

 

Police identified the suspect as Nattawut, or Tong, also 28 years old and a resident of Chum Phae district. Following the shooting, Nattawut abandoned his white Honda Jazz, registered in Bangkok, and reportedly escaped in a Toyota Fortuner heading towards Loei province.

 

According to witnesses, the victim and the suspect had a verbal confrontation inside the nightclub, which escalated into physical violence. While bystanders initially intervened to de-escalate the situation, Nattawut, still visibly upset, invited Kritsada to discuss the matter outside. During the conversation, Nattawut allegedly drew a semi-automatic handgun and fired multiple shots at Kritsada before fleeing.

 

Police recovered seven spent bullet casings at the scene. Efforts are underway to analyse the evidence, including ballistics, to strengthen the case against the suspect.

 

Chum Phae Police Chief Pol Col Rakchart Rueangcharoen confirmed that an arrest warrant is being sought for Nattawut on charges of premeditated murder and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition in a public area without justification.

 

Authorities suspect that Nattawut, along with his Laotian wife, may have fled across the border into Laos. Thai police have contacted border authorities and their counterparts in neighbouring countries to assist in the search.

 

The shooting has sparked concerns among residents over the safety of nightlife venues in the area. Local authorities have urged club operators to cooperate with law enforcement in maintaining order and preventing similar incidents in the future.

 

Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest.

 

-- 2024-12-27

 

 

 

[PJ71]

Man child!

[hotchilli]

8 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

According to witnesses, the victim and the suspect had a verbal confrontation inside the nightclub, which escalated into physical violence. While bystanders initially intervened to de-escalate the situation, Nattawut, still visibly upset, invited Kritsada to discuss the matter outside. During the conversation, Nattawut allegedly drew a semi-automatic handgun and fired multiple shots at Kritsada before fleeing

Carrying a gun in a night club... nice.