Tragedy in Ratchaburi: Bedridden Woman Murdered During Robbery

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

In a grim incident in Ratchaburi province, a bedridden woman was found dead in her home after being stabbed multiple times during a robbery. The shocking discovery was made by the victim's caretaker at 4:45pm yesterday, highlighting a heinous crime in the usually tranquil Ban Pong district.

Police Colonel Teerapong Sa-ard from Baan Pong District Police Station led the initial investigation at the single-storey cement house located at 81/1, Moo 9, Tha Pha subdistrict. The victim, 53-year-old Sripai Butkhum, had been bedridden due to polio since birth. Her body was found on her bed amidst a chaotic scene, with evidence of a violent struggle. Pillows and blankets were strewn about, and she had suffered more than ten stab wounds to her head and neck. Blood covered the mattress.

Investigators found signs of forced entry through a rear window, and the victim’s belongings appeared ransacked. The suspect had stolen 7,500 Baht (around 230 USD) that had been hidden under the victim's pillow.

Nitaya, the 64-year-old caretaker, reported that she had been caring for the victim for nearly three years, providing meals, and assisting with bathing and other needs. Three days prior, she had borrowed 7,500 Baht from the victim’s sister to resolve a personal financial issue. She returned the money yesterday afternoon, placing it with the victim before leaving.

Nitaya returned around 4pm to help the victim bathe and was met with a closed door. Upon entry, she discovered the horrifying scene and promptly contacted the victim's sister and the police. Nitaya also noted having observed two unknown men lurking in the wooded area behind the house two days prior, potentially linked to the crime.

Police Colonel Kobchok Lektakul, also from Baan Pong District Police Station, indicated that the perpetrator likely targeted the house, knowing the victim was alone while her siblings were at work. This vulnerability may have provided the opportunity for the opportunistic robbery and subsequent murder.

Authorities have initiated a thorough investigation, calling for witness statements and gathering evidence in hopes of identifying and apprehending the suspect. The goal is swift justice for the victim whose life was tragically cut short in these brutal circumstances.

The community remains in shock as police work tirelessly to resolve the case and bring peace to the grieving family. This brutal act has highlighted concerns about safety, urging local residents to stay vigilant.

As the investigation continues, the broader implications for community safety and the rising incidents of robbery in vulnerable homes are becoming a topic of serious concern. The authorities' response and the swift apprehension of the suspect will be crucial in restoring a sense of security in the area.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-17