Gunmen Opens Fire at Football Pitch Over Old Grudge – 2 Dead in Samut Prakan

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

A shooting at a football pitch in Samut Prakan has left two men dead and one critically injured after two former factory workers stormed the field to settle an old dispute with a former colleague. The attack, which took place on the evening of 18 July, has prompted a province-wide manhunt for the armed suspect and his accomplice.

Police were alerted to the scene just after 21:00 at a synthetic grass football field in Soi Thai Prakan 1/5, Bang Sao Thong District. Pol. Col. Sophon Mongkolsofonrat, Superintendent of Bang Sao Thong Police Station, responded to the call alongside senior provincial officers, including Pol. Maj. Gen. Wichit Boonchinwutthikun, Commander of Samut Prakan Provincial Police and forensic and rescue teams.

At the scene, officers discovered the body of Chayamon, who had sustained over a dozen shotgun wounds to the chest and face. Spent shotgun shells and a pillow used to muffle the sound were found nearby. The metal fence lining the pitch showed multiple signs of ricochet damage.

Two other victims, Chaiyawat and Prommin, were seriously wounded and rushed to hospital. Chaiyawat succumbed to his injuries after being shot in the chest and neck. Prommin remains in critical condition after being struck in the chin and face and after undergoing emergency surgery.

Security footage reviewed by investigators showed that the suspects Bo, 23 and Thong, 20, rode a motorcycle to the football ground. Bo, who had a known personal conflict with Chayamon from their time working together, was seen shouting for him to come out. He then attempted to shoot him at close range, but the gun misfired. As the victims tried to flee, Thong drew a short-barrel shotgun and opened fire, hitting all three men before the pair fled the scene.

According to Pol. Maj. Gen. Wichit, the motive for the attack was a personal feud dating back to their time as co-workers. The suspects knew that Chayamon regularly played football with friends every Friday evening and used this opportunity to launch the deadly ambush.

Authorities confirmed the identities of both assailants and have launched an intensive manhunt involving provincial and regional investigators. Police warn that the suspects are armed and dangerous and urge them to surrender.

“Due to the use of firearms in this crime, we cannot guarantee the suspects’ safety if they continue to resist arrest,” said Pol. Maj. Gen. Wichit, stressing the importance of cooperation.

The investigation continues, and charges of murder and attempted murder are expected to be filed.

  Adapted by Asean Now from khaosod 2025-07-20