Drunk Police Officer Faces Charges After Fatal Crash in Nakhon Si Thammarat

Photo via ThaiRath

A police officer, found heavily intoxicated, faces serious charges following a tragic car crash that resulted in the death of a 62-year-old woman in Nakhon Si Thammarat on June 15.

The incident began when Police Senior Sergeant Major Wicharn, driving a grey sedan, crashed into a parked car at Jampa Temple and fled the scene. Continuing his reckless drive, he collided with a motorcycle ridden by Pornthip Chonwijit. Shockingly, Wicharn did not stop and subsequently hit another vehicle.

Tragically, Pornthip sustained severe injuries and succumbed to them in hospital the following day. The other motorist involved suffered only minor injuries. Eyewitnesses intervened, restraining the officer and confiscating his firearm to prevent his escape.

Sujinda Chaiyanong, a relative of the victim, witnessed the horrific accident unfold. She recounted seeing the motorcycle struck, causing Pornthip to be thrown onto the car’s roof before landing on the ground.

In response, Teerawut Thepluean, Superintendent of Thung Song Police Station, promised justice would be upheld. Wicharn has been suspended from duties pending legal proceedings.

The officer now faces four charges:

1. Reckless Behaviour Causing Death: Under Section 291, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 baht.
2. Driving Under the Influence Resulting in Death: Under Section 160, punishable by 3 to 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of 60,000 to 200,000 baht, or both.
3. Fleeing the Scene: Under Section 78, punishable by up to 3 months in jail and a fine of up to 5,000 baht.
4. Driving Without Regard for Safety: Under Section 43(8), punishable by up to 3 months in prison, a fine of 2,000 to 10,000 baht, or both.

Wicharn is currently receiving medical treatment and will be questioned once his condition stabilises. The case highlights serious concerns over police conduct and accountability in Thailand.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-17