Crime Homeless Man Stabbed to Death in Chumphon Over Sleeping Spot Dispute

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Police in Chumphon have arrested a 48-year-old homeless man accused of fatally stabbing a fellow vagrant following a dispute over a sleeping area in a derelict railway warehouse.

 

The suspect, identified as Mr Sirichai, also known by his nickname “Ork”, was detained by police on the evening of 3 July, as he walked past a convenience store in the city centre, not far from the scene of the crime. Officers served an arrest warrant issued earlier that day by Chumphon Provincial Court on a charge of homicide.

 

The stabbing took place on the evening of July 1 in a narrow alley beside the Chumphon Rangsan Temple, also known locally as Wat Nuea. The victim, Mr Somkiat, 49, suffered a single stab wound and later died at Chumphon Hospital.

 

According to investigators, the killing occurred in a cramped, makeshift sleeping area used by homeless individuals inside an old railway goods depot. Police found a bloodstained mat, a pillow, and various personal items at the scene, indicating a violent altercation had taken place.

 

Witnesses told police that the two men, both homeless, had previously used the same spot to sleep. Mr Somkiat, who had been absent for several days, reportedly returned to find Mr Sirichai occupying “his” sleeping place. An argument ensued, during which Mr Sirichai, believed to have been under the influence of glue or other inhalants, allegedly produced a folding knife and stabbed the victim once before fleeing.

 

Police say Mr Sirichai later returned to the area, thinking the altercation hadn’t caused serious injury and that no one had reported the incident. However, based on witness accounts and forensic evidence gathered at the scene, investigators were able to obtain a warrant and track him down within 48 hours.

 

During questioning, Mr Sirichai admitted to the stabbing but claimed it was in self-defence. He said the victim had confronted him with two other individuals and that he feared for his safety. However, police noted that his statement was rambling and incoherent, suggesting he may have been under the influence of drugs at the time.

 

The investigation is ongoing, and police have not ruled out further charges. Authorities also plan to examine whether substance abuse played a significant role in the suspect’s actions.

 

This tragic case highlights the vulnerability and desperation faced by Thailand’s homeless population, particularly in urban centres where access to shelter and mental health services remains limited.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-05