Gunman Held After 71-Year-Old Shot Dead in Phayao Orchard

Picture courtesy of Kaoded.

Police in  Phayao have arrested a man suspected of fatally shooting a 71-year-old in a durian and rubber orchard in Phu Sang District. The victim, Mr Arun Rungreung, was found lying face-down on the ground on the evening of August 1st by relatives, who initially believed he had collapsed. He was rushed to Phu Sang Hospital, where doctors discovered multiple gunshot wounds, four to the right side of his torso and two to his right buttock. He was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Investigators, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Sanchai Hinthrai of Phu Sang Police Station, combed the crime scene near Ban That Phu Sang village, Moo 10 and discovered evidence of a hidden firing position in nearby forest undergrowth. Damaged tree leafs and branches near the site and bicycle tyre tracks were spotted on the gravel path, believed to have been used by the suspect to flee.

Later that day, police searched the home of a local man, Mr Khian aged 62, in the same village. There they discovered a sawn-off shotgun and 13 rounds of 12-gauge ammunition. Mr Khian was taken into custody and is facing charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as drug use, after testing positive for methamphetamine.

Police are continuing their investigation to determine the suspect’s connection to the murder. The victim’s body remains at Phayao Hospital pending a full autopsy by forensic examiners.