Man Shot Outside Chiang Rai Store, Drug Feud Suspected

Picture courtesy of Naewna

Police in Chiang Rai are investigating a shooting outside a convenience store in Mae Chan district that left a 35-year-old man critically injured. The incident occurred on 16 September 2025 in front of a 7-Eleven branch at San Kong market. Rescue teams rushed the victim to Mae Chan Hospital with multiple gunshot wounds.

The injured man was identified as Mr Phongsawat, 35, who sustained gunshot injuries to his left shoulder, right shoulder and cheekbone. Police examined CCTV footage from the scene and identified the suspected shooter as Mr Sarayut, 30, from Huai Khrai in Mae Sai district. After the attack, the suspect fled on a blue Honda Giorno motorcycle, heading towards the San Kong intersection on the Mae Chan–Mae Sai road.

Investigators believe the incident stemmed from a conflict related to drugs. Initial checks revealed that both the victim and the suspect had prior records of involvement in narcotics. Police also confirmed that Sarayut is wanted under an outstanding arrest warrant for drug offences.

According to investigators, the two men encountered each other inside the store before moving outside, where an argument escalated into gunfire. Police units are now working with footage from surveillance cameras along the suspect’s escape route to narrow down his location. They have confirmed the case is being treated as a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence.

Officers at Mae Chan Police Station said the shooting highlights ongoing risks of drug-related disputes spilling into public spaces. They stressed that capturing the suspect is a priority to prevent further violence. Security in the area has been reinforced, and local residents have been urged to report any sightings of the suspect or his motorcycle.

The investigation remains active, with police coordinating across districts to locate and apprehend Sarayut. Officials confirmed that further legal action will follow once the suspect is in custody.

Key Takeaways

• A 35-year-old man was shot and critically injured outside a 7-Eleven in Mae Chan on 16 September.

• The suspect, aged 30, fled on a blue motorcycle and is already wanted on drug charges.

• Police believe the shooting was linked to a drug-related conflict and are pursuing the suspect.

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-09-17